Packaging and dispensers for adhesive backed elements

ABSTRACT

An element dispensing package suitable for dispensing adhesive strips or bandages. Each element is contained within an envelope formed by opposed upper and lower sheets. The lower sheet has a release liner secured thereto to protect the element while it is within the dispenser. The element is releasably secured to a first tab and is separated from the package when the envelope is opened. The first tab has one or more gripping means to facilitate dispensing of the element contained within the package. Additionally, the upper sheet and the lower sheet have optional gripping means (e.g., a second tab) to facilitate dispensing of the element contained within the package.

REFERENCE TO PRIORITY

This application is a continuation of and claims the benefit of U.S.patent application Ser. No. 11/032,295, filed Jan. 10, 2005, now U.S.Pat. No. 7,506,760, the contents of which are incorporated herein byreference in its entirety.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates generally to packaging and dispensingsystems for adhesive-backed rigid and non-rigid elements such asbandages, strips, and the like, and more particularly to a single-stepdispensing system for the elements therein.

REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

The subject matter of the present application is related to, and may beadvantageously combined with, the subject matter of the U.S. applicationSer. No. 10/190,195, to Grossman, filed Jul. 6, 2002, entitled, “BandagePackage and Dispenser,” now U.S. Pat. No. 6,923,320, incorporated hereinby reference in its entirety.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Packaging and dispensing systems for commonly known adhesive bandagesare known in the art and described below. Adhesive bandages, commonlycalled finger bandages, strip bandages, and first-aid bandages, are wellknown in the prior art. Commercially available adhesive bandages such asthe Band-Aid™ brand bandages are for the most part individuallypackaged. The most widely used packaging means comprises outer wrapperswhich must be stripped apart to remove the bandage. The bandagetypically consists of a backing on which an adhesive layer is applied toone side, and on which a sterile pad suitable for covering wounds iscentrally placed. Two removable liners are placed upon theadhesive-coated side of the backing (or adhesive-backed flexible strip)covering both the pad and the adhesive layer.

Typical prior art adhesive bandages and wrappers require one to open anenvelope or package containing the bandage, remove the bandage, peel offthe removable liners to expose the adhesive layer and pad and then applythe bandage to the body. Such packaging, however, has certaindisadvantages, chief of which are: (a) the possibility of touching thesterile pad before application, which may result in loss of sterility;(b) awkwardness and difficulty in applying the bandage to the body,especially with one hand; (c) having the adhesive surface stick toitself while in the process of applying the bandage to the body, thusrequiring either the removal of the bandage and an additionalapplication attempt or discarding the bandage entirely and starting theentire process over with a new bandage; and (d) having to dispose ofindividual wrapping components, which typically consist of the tworemovable liners and one or two pieces of outer wrapping.

These disadvantages are exacerbated by the conditions under whichbandages are often applied. For example, opening of the package is oftendone under urgent conditions, which increases the likelihood that thebandage will accidentally fall out of the outer wrapper, resulting inloss of sterility of the bandage.

While some prior designs have simplified the process of application ofthe bandage, they have several disadvantages. One such prior artapproach described in U.S. Pat. No. 4,182,449, to Kozlow, entitled“Adhesive bandage and package” discloses a bandage wherein the user isrequired to place his fingers near the sterile pad to remove the lining,thus increasing the likelihood of inadvertently touching andcontaminating the sterile pad.

There have been other attempts to improve the bandage dispensing andapplication process, such as by folding the bandage over itself andproviding for an automatic removal of the liner, as in U.S. Pat. No.5,333,753 to Etheredge, entitled “Finger bandage package and dispenser.”While this design does provide for removal of the bandage and liner, itrequires skill in application, as the opened package is cumbersome andtypically requires the use of both hands during application of thebandage. Additionally, as the package is folded over itself, it isdifficult for the user to determine the size of the bandage containedtherein before the package is opened and the bandage unfolded.

U.S. Pat. No. 5,397,297, to Hunter, entitled “Adhesive Bandage WithImproved Application System,” discloses an adhesive bandage havingessentially flat, planar structural components and including a system tofacilitate simplified application of the bandage by providing pairs ofrelease strips folded back across themselves to furnish end memberssealed within respective ends of a package so that when the package isopened a release strip is simultaneously pulled away from an adhesivecoating of a bandage film thereby further allowing its application withonly one hand when necessary. This system requires the release liner tobe folded back over itself for the substantially its entire length whichincreases cost and adds to assembly complexity. Additionally, in orderto rip the outer cover, the user must manipulate the package with eitherboth hands or place the package in his or her mouth which is undesirableand would not work with dispensing systems (e.g., linear pullingdispensing packs as are described infra).

With the advent of so called “thin-film” bandages and wound dressings(also known as “Transparent film dressings”) there has developed a needto provide sufficient rigidity to the adhesive strip or bandage using acarrier strip, also referred to as a carrier member, outer frame,blocking member, frame style carrier or other means, until the bandageis successfully applied to the desired object. The carrier strip alsoprevents the thin-film bandage from stretching excessively when thebandage is removed from the package. One commonly used design to impartrigidity to the thin-film strip or bandage is the partial carrier (orframe-style carrier), which is essentially a ring-like structureremovably attached to the strip. This design is used in commerciallyavailable bandages such as 3M™ NEXCARE™ WATERPROOF BANDAGES. Thisdesign, however, requires that the partial carrier be removed uponapplication of the bandage. Many users, especially those unfamiliar withthe design, tend to pull the carrier strip off the bandage before thebandage is removed from the release liner attached to the lower sheet ofthe package, thus destroying the bandage. Additionally, users often pullthe carrier strip off the bandage at the wrong location, and/or try topull the carrier strip off in the wrong direction, before or afterapplication of the bandage, both of which result in destruction of thebandage. Additionally, this design has the drawback of requiring theuser to pull off the carrier sheet after the bandage is applied to thedesired object.

Another known thin-film type bandage is the commercially available 3M™TEGADERM™ TRANSPARENT DRESSING. This bandage uses a frame style carrierand for the most part is similar to the 3M™ NEXCARE™ bandage. Onesignificant difference is that some TEGADERM™ products have a “window”that must be removed before the bandage is applied to a desired surface.This design has the drawback of requiring the user to pull off the“window” section before the bandage is applied to the desired object.

Another known thin-film bandage is the ADVANCED CURAD™ AQUA-PROTECT™bandage distributed by FUTURO Inc., which uses a full carrier sheetwhich superposes the adhesive strip or bandage. In this bandage thecarrier sheet is releasably attached to the adhesive strip or bandage sothat it can be removed by pulling on an attached pull tab (also called ablue flap) once the adhesive strip or bandage is applied to the desiredobject. A disadvantage, however, is that many users, especially thoseunfamiliar with the operation of the design, remove the full-lengthcarrier sheet before applying the bandage, resulting in the destructionof the bandage or try to remove the carrier sheet by pulling on a cornerof the bandage thereby inadvertently pulling the bandage off the desiredobject. Moreover, many users, while trying to determine how to removethe carrier sheet, attempt to pull some part of the bandage, but notknowing what or where to pull, they attempt to grasp the pull tab at theinterior edge rather than the exterior edge and not being able to graspit at that point, they give up and do not remove the carrier sheet andtherefore do not benefit from the use of the thin-film materials.

Thus, there is a need for an easy to use one-handed bandage package anddispensing system that is capable of dispensing bandages, adhesivestrips, flexible strips, or other elements from a dispenser that avoidsthe problems and disadvantages of prior art systems.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The present invention is a bandage packaging and dispensing systemparticularly suited for dispensing adhesive-backed elements such asbandages and the like.

The current invention comprises two major embodiments, a first majorembodiment and a second major embodiment each of which has severalalternative embodiments.

In the first major embodiment, the package comprises an upper sheet, alower sheet, an inner tab member, a flexible adhesive strip, and arelease liner. The upper sheet has end regions, edge regions, and aweakened line (or area) defining a first tab region. The lower sheet hasend regions, side regions, and a weakened line (or area) defining afirst tab region. Both the upper sheet and the lower sheet areoptionally at least partially coated on one side with a cohesivematerial (and/or an adhesive) which is suitable for securing the packageand which can maintain a sterile seal if desired. The upper sheetsuperposes (or substantially superposes) the lower sheet and isreleasably attached thereto along the outer perimeter of the package.Alternatively, an adhesive or other suitable means is used to bond theupper sheet to the lower sheet.

The adhesive backed elements comprise a backing of suitable material, onone surface of which a pressure-sensitive adhesive is applied to atleast a portion thereof and an optional pad suitable for covering thewound is centrally or otherwise placed. The adhesive-coated surface ofthe flexible strip or bandage is placed in contact with and at leastpartially superposes a release liner. At least a portion of the releaseliner is in contact with, and attached to, the lower sheet proximate tothe weakened line of the lower sheet. The inner tab member is attachedto either or both the tab region of the upper sheet and the tab regionof the lower sheet. The second end of the inner tab member has anoptional gripping means, such as a removal tab, to assist the user inremoving the inner tab member and the attached first tab from theadhesive strip after the adhesive strip has been applied to a desiredobject. In optional embodiments, the optional wound pad is placedoff-center on the adhesive strip.

The end regions and the edge regions of the upper sheet and the lowersheet are fixably attached or releasably attached to each other exceptat those points where the optional blocking member intervenes betweenthem, at which points the upper and/or lower sheets may be fixablyattached or releasably attached to the blocking member so as to form aseal around the outer periphery of the combination formed by theadhesive strip, the release liner, and parts of the inner tab member.Moreover, the blocking member may intervene between the optional innertab member and either the upper sheet or the lower sheet, in which casethe inner tab member can be optionally attached to the blocking member.

The adhesive strip or bandage is placed in an envelope within thepackage formed by the upper sheet and the lower sheet and is releasablyattached to the inner tab member, and is protected by the release liner.

The end regions and the edge regions of the upper sheet and the lowersheet are fixably attached or releasably attached to each other so as toform a seal around the outer periphery of the combination formed by theadhesive strip, the release liner, and the inner tab member.

Optional notches (or cutouts, thinned lines, perforations, etc.) can beplaced along the weakened line to assist the separation of the weakenedline.

In the second major embodiment, the package comprises an upper sheet, alower sheet, a flexible adhesive strip and a release liner. The uppersheet has an outer periphery which has end regions, edge regions, afirst tab and optional weakened lines defining a pull cover. The lowersheet has an outer periphery comprising end regions, side regions and afirst tab. The both the upper sheet and the lower sheet are optionallyat least partially coated on one side with a cohesive (or other suitableadhesive) material which is suitable for securing the package and canmaintain a sterile seal if desired. The upper sheet superposes the lowersheet and except for that portion which forms the first tab and thesecond tab, is releasably attached thereto along the outer perimeter ofthe package.

The adhesive backed elements comprise a backing of suitable material onone surface of which a pressure-sensitive adhesive is applied to atleast a portion thereof and an optional pad suitable for covering woundis centrally placed. The adhesive-coated surface of the flexible stripor bandage is placed in contact with and at least partially superimposesa release liner. At least a portion of the first end of the releaseliner is in contact with and is attached to the lower sheet proximate tothe first end region of the lower sheet. Alternatively, the releaseliner is formed integrally with the lower sheet (e.g., by coating thelower sheet with a U.V. curable release coating).

The pull cover is releasably attached to first end of the adhesivestrip. The second end of the pull cover has an optional gripping means,such as a removal tab, to assist the user in removing the pull coverfrom the adhesive strip after the adhesive strip has been applied to adesired object. In alternative embodiments, the pull cover can extendfor a length which is shorter than the length of the upper sheet.

The end regions and the edge regions of the upper sheet and the lowersheet are fixably attached or releasably attached to each other so as toform a seal around the outer periphery of the combination formed by theadhesive strip and the release liner. In alternative embodimentscomprising circular (or the like) packages, the end and edge regions arethe same and refer to an area which lies somewhere between the peripheryof the adhesive strip or bandage and the periphery of the upper sheetand/or the lower sheet so as to envelope the adhesive strip.

Alternatively, one or more optional blocking members are placed alongthe perimeter of the package to equalize the exterior thickness of thepackage in desired areas. The blocking member or members are placed atselected locations or continuously along the perimeter of the package.

The end regions and the edge regions of the upper sheet and the lowersheet are fixably attached or releasably attached to each other exceptat those points where the optional blocking member intervenes betweenthem, at which points the first and/or lower sheets may be fixablyattached or releasably attached to the blocking member so as to form aseal around the outer periphery of the combination formed by theadhesive strip and the releasably attached release liner.

Optionally, the upper sheet and the lower sheet are formed integrallyfrom the same sheet of material.

A removal means located opposite the first tab on the pull cover and issuitable for grasping such that the user can remove the pull cover afterthe bandage is applied. Suitable removal means include a removal tab.

The adhesive strip or bandage is placed in an envelope within thepackage formed by the upper sheet and the lower sheet and is releasablyattached to the pull cover.

Optionally, depending upon the particular embodiment used, the uppersheet and the lower sheet are formed integrally from the same sheet ofmaterial.

Optional blocking members may be placed in both major embodiments alongthe perimeter of the package to equalize the thickness of the package indesired areas. The blocking member or members are placed at selectedlocations or continuously along the perimeter of the package. If theblocking members superpose the weakened lines of the upper sheet and thelower sheet, then the blocking members should also have weakened linesin those areas which superpose the weakened lines of the upper sheet andthe weakened lines of the lower sheet.

In both major embodiments, the package and dispenser are incorporatedinto a larger assembly by attaching the upper sheet or the lower sheetto additional upper sheets or lower sheets, respectively, along theirtransverse ends or lateral ends or both so as to form a continuous sheetpackaging and dispensing mechanism. The first tabs of each individualpackage should remain free from each other so that the user can easilygrasp individual tabs.

In another embodiment, a plurality of packages is stacked upon eachother to form a dispensing pack suitable for dispensing a plurality ofelements. Additionally, a box stores a plurality of individual packagesor a containing-pack and dispenses elements such as bandages or flexiblestrips as needed. Alternatively, a plurality of packages and dispenserscan be aligned with each other and attached to attachment strips or to acontinuous sheet.

An advantage of the present invention is that it simplifies andexpedites the bandage-application process by eliminating the need toseparate a release liner from the bandage or adhesive strip once thepackage and dispenser are opened. Furthermore, the present inventionobviates the need to dispose of removed release liners. Moreover, asonly the first tab, and inner tab member (and/or the optional carriersheet) remain attached to the bandage during application to the wound,they do not obscure the user's view of the wound or get in the wayduring the application process. This facilitates precise and convenientone-handed application of the bandage to the wound. Furthermore, theattached tab section or support layer operates as a handle and enhancesthe user's grip on the bandage during application. Thus, use of thepresent invention significantly increases the likelihood of successful,precise application of the bandage.

Another advantage of the present invention is that it does not requirefolds in the packaging material as the package is assembled.

A further advantage of the present invention is that in certainembodiments the force required to open the package is optionallyminimized by reducing the length of the weakened line. Additionally,because much of the seal between the upper sheet and the lower sheetdoes not have to be broken, the adhesives used can be more aggressivewhich would thus assure a more sterile seal. Additionally, heat bondingcan be used which would obviate the need for latex based adhesives whichcan cause allergic reactions.

An additional advantage of the present invention is the incorporation offeatures that reduce the complexity and cost of manufacturing. Note thatone skilled in the art can easily adapt the packaging and dispensingmechanism of the present invention to package and dispense numerousitems such as surgical drapes, nasal strips, diagnostic strips,diagnostic smart bandages, flexible thermometers, medical testingdevices, transdermal patches, etc.

The present invention is suitable for use with all types of bandages andadhesive strips including the commercially available bandages such as3M™ NEXCARE™ WATERPROOF BANDAGES, 3M™ TEGADERM™ TRANSPARENT DRESSINGwith frame-style carriers (and other types of carriers and includingwindow-style frames as well as other types of frames), 3M™ NEXCARE™bandage. Additionally, the current invention works with bandages havingfull carriers such as the ADVANCED CURAD™ AQUA-PROTECT™ bandagedistributed by FUTURO Inc., which uses a full carrier sheet whichsuperposes the adhesive strip or bandage.

Additionally, the present invention provides several schemes fordispensing a plurality of flexible strips, adhesive strips, bandages, orother elements, as described elsewhere in this document, from adispensing packs which use the current invention as well as currentlycommercial available bandages such as QwikStrip™ brand bandages,manufactured by Qwikstrip Products, A GMP Company, Houston, Tex., whichare commercially available and is shown and described in U.S. Pat. Nos.6,124,522 and 6,225,522, entitled “Packaging for Adhesive-Sided Articlesto Allow One Handed Application,” and “Assembly for Dispensing PackagedAdhesive-Sided Articles,” respectively, to Schroeder. Other adhesivestrip dispenser packages which use a carrier or support layer, anadhesive strip attached thereto and a release backing releasablyattached to the adhesive strip (or bandage) are also suitable. One suchdesign is described in U.S. Pat. No. 5,685,833, to Tungren, entitled“Sterile Adhesive Bandage and Associated Methods.”

Thus, the present invention provides a sterile package dispensingmechanism for flexible strips, bandages or the like which can be easilyremoved from the dispenser with minimal effort and which can be appliedwith a single hand thus minimizing the possibility of contaminating theadhesive strip or the absorbent pad or diminishing the adhesiveproperties of the adhesive strip.

The present invention is compatible with the dispensing packs shown anddescribed in U.S. Pat. No. 6,923,320 (hereinafter referred to as the'014 application), to Victor A. Grossman, entitled “Bandage package anddispenser,” which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The invention is herein described, by way of example only, withreference to the accompanying drawings, wherein:

FIG. 1 is a bottom planar view illustration of the flexible strip of thepresent invention with an adhesive layer and an absorbent pad affixedthereon;

FIG. 2 is a cross section view illustration of the flexible strip ofFIG. 1 taken along line 2-2;

FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view illustration of a first alternativeembodiment of the adhesive strip or bandage with a full carrier andhaving inner tab members which are attached to the carrier;

FIG. 4A is a perspective view illustration of a second alternativeembodiment of the adhesive strip or bandage incorporating a partialcarrier;

FIG. 4B is a cross section view illustration of the flexible strip andcarrier combination of the present invention, taken along line 4B-4B ofFIG. 4A;

FIG. 5 is a side view illustration of the adhesive strip or bandage anddispenser package with the side edges unattached to each otherconstructed in accordance with the first major embodiment of the presentinvention;

FIG. 6 is an exploded perspective view illustration of the adhesivestrip or bandage and dispenser package according to the first majorembodiment of the current invention;

FIG. 7 is an exploded perspective view illustration of the adhesivestrip or bandage and dispenser package using a carrier and blockingmember according to an alternative embodiment of the first majorembodiment of the current invention;

FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view illustration of the adhesive strip orbandage and dispenser package according to the first major embodiment ofthe present invention, taken along line 8-8 of FIG. 6;

FIG. 9 is a detailed top view illustration of an alternative embodimentof the first major embodiment of the present invention with the uppersheet partially peeled away;

FIG. 10A is a detailed cross-sectional view illustration of a firstalternative embodiment of a method of attaching a tab extension to anadhesive strip or bandage;

FIG. 10B is a detailed cross sectional view illustration of the presentinvention showing an alternative attachment of said release liner tosaid lower sheet using a folded release liner;

FIG. 11 is a cross sectional view illustration of an alternativeembodiment of the first major embodiment of the present invention havingan adhesive applied to both the upper and lower surfaces of the adhesivestrip and including a carrier;

FIG. 12A is a cross sectional view illustrations of an individualpackage according to the first major embodiment of the present inventionas it is opened and the adhesive strip being removed from the package;

FIG. 12B is a cross sectional view illustration of an inner tab memberand first tab being removed from an adhesive strip of the first majorembodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 13 is an exploded perspective view illustration of the adhesivestrip or bandage and dispenser package constructed in accordance withthe second major embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 14A is a cross sectional view illustration of the adhesive strip orbandage and dispenser package according to the second major embodimentof the current invention taken along line 14-14 of FIG. 13;

FIG. 14B is a cross sectional view illustration of the adhesive strip orbandage and dispenser package according to second major embodiment ofthe current invention with the upper sheet, the pull cover and theattached adhesive strip peeled back;

FIG. 14C is a cross sectional view illustration of the adhesive strip orbandage and dispenser package according to the second major embodimentof the current invention as it is being opened non-axially and the pullcover and the releasably attached adhesive strip being pulled away fromthe lower sheet and the release liner;

FIG. 15 is a cross-sectional view illustration of the adhesive strip orbandage and dispenser package according to the second major embodimentof the present invention, taken along line 15-15 of FIG. 13;

FIG. 16 is a detailed top view illustration of the adhesive strip orbandage and dispenser package according to a first alternativeembodiment of the second major alternative embodiment;

FIG. 17 is a cross sectional view illustration of a second alternativeembodiment of second major embodiment of the present invention, whichshows an alternative attachment of the release liner to the lower sheet;

FIG. 18 is a detailed top view illustration of a third alternativeembodiment of the second major embodiment of the present invention,which shows an alternative second tab which is suitable for sideattachment;

FIG. 19A is a side view illustration of the second major embodiment ofthe present invention attached to and held in position by a locatingmeans;

FIG. 19B is a side view illustration of the second major embodiment ofthe present invention which shows a package being opened by pullinglinearly;

FIG. 20A is a side view illustration of an alternative embodiment of thesecond major embodiment of the present invention attached to and held inposition by a locating means;

FIG. 20B is a side view illustration of an alternative embodiment of thesecond major embodiment of the present invention which shows the packagebeing opened;

FIG. 21 is an exploded perspective view illustration of a firstembodiment of a dispensing pack;

FIG. 22 is a perspective view illustration of a second embodiment of adispensing pack;

FIG. 23A is an exploded perspective view illustration of individualpackages being aligned and attached to each other using attachingstrips;

FIG. 23B is a top view illustration of the individual packages alignedand attached to each other as shown in FIG. 23A;

FIG. 24 is a perspective view illustration of an alternative dispenserthat uses an optional external guide means suitable for use with thecontinuous roll dispensing pack;

FIG. 25A is an exploded side view illustration of a third embodiment ofa dispensing pack;

FIG. 25B is a side view illustration of the third embodiment of thedispensing pack with the packages attached to each other;

FIG. 26A is an exploded perspective view illustration of the fourthembodiment of a dispensing pack;

FIG. 26B is an exploded perspective view illustration of a fifthembodiment of a dispensing pack;

FIG. 27A is a perspective view illustration of a sixth embodiment of adispensing pack;

FIG. 27B is a perspective view illustration of a seventh embodiment of adispensing pack;

FIG. 28A is a front side view illustration of a eighth embodiment of adispensing pack adapted to dispense adhesive strips from opposing sides;

FIG. 28B is a front side view illustration of a ninth embodiment of adispensing pack adapted to dispense adhesive strips from opposing sides;

FIG. 29 is a perspective view illustration of a first embodiment of acontainer assembly which uses a “flip-box”;

FIG. 30 is a perspective view illustration of a second embodiment of acontainer assembly incorporating a sliding-box;

FIG. 31 is a semi-cutaway perspective view illustration of a thirdembodiment of a container assembly;

FIG. 32A is a perspective view illustration of a fourth embodiment of acontainer assembly incorporating a flip-cover-type box with the coverbeing in the closed position;

FIG. 32B is a side view illustration of the container assembly of FIG.32A;

FIG. 32C is a perspective view illustration of the container assembly ofFIG. 32A with the cover being in a semi-open position;

FIG. 33A is a perspective view illustration of a fifth embodiment of acontainer assembly incorporating a flip-cover-type box including sidemembers, with the cover and one side member being in the semi-openposition;

FIG. 33B is a perspective view illustration of the container assembly ofFIG. 33A with side members secured to each other;

FIG. 33C is a perspective view illustration of the container assembly ofFIG. 33A with the cover in the closed position;

FIG. 34A is a perspective view illustration of a sixth embodiment of acontainer assembly incorporating a flexible outer wrapper having a bodyportion and a removable top portion;

FIG. 34B is a perspective view illustration of the container assembly ofFIG. 34A with the top portion removed;

FIGS. 35A and 35B are perspective view illustrations of a seventhembodiment of a container assembly incorporating a semi-rigid bodyportion and a re-sealable cover in the closed and open positionsrespectively;

FIG. 36A is a perspective view illustration of an eighth embodiment of acontainer assembly incorporating a flip-cover-type box with the coverbeing in the semi open position;

FIG. 36B is a perspective view illustration of the container assembly ofFIG. 36A with the front cover in the closed position;

FIG. 36C is a side view illustration of the container assembly of FIG.36A taken along line 36C-36C of FIG. 36B;

FIG. 36D is a perspective view illustration of the container assembly ofFIG. 36A with the front cover and one side member being in a semi-openposition;

FIG. 36E is a perspective view illustration of the container assembly ofFIG. 36A with side members secured to each other and the first tabsfolded back over themselves;

FIG. 37A is a detailed side view illustration of the container assemblyof FIG. 36A with the front cover being partially opened and a first tabextending from a package;

FIG. 37B is a detailed side view illustration of the container assemblyof FIG. 37A as the package is opened;

FIG. 37C is a detailed side view illustration of the container assemblyof FIG. 37A as the package is opened;

FIG. 37D is a detailed side view illustration of the container assemblyof FIG. 37A as the package is opened; and

FIG. 37E is a detailed side view illustration of the container assemblyof FIG. 37A as the package is opened.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

The following terms and definitions may apply throughout this document.

The term flexible strip can be used to denote a strip, spot, transdermalpatch (e.g., a medical patch), patch, eye occlusion, testing strip,wound dressing of various shapes and materials (such as commonly-knownfoam wound dressings), or like device which flexes easily and which hastwo surfaces, including an upper surface and a lower surface.

The term adhesive strip denotes a flexible strip upon which a suitableadhesive coating is applied to at least a portion of a surface thereof.For example, if a transdermal patch (e.g., a medical patch) is used thenthe adhesive can contain a desired pharmaceutical composition such as adrug that is to be delivered to a user.

The term bandage can denote a flexible strip with an adhesive coatingapplied to a surface thereof, upon which an absorbent pad is placed.Alternatively, the term bandage can include medical bandages (or wounddressings) which do not have an absorbent pad placed upon the adhesivesurface (e.g., the aforesaid foam or any other suitable bandagematerial). Moreover, the term bandage can also refer to medical patches.For the sake of clarity, though, when referring to bandages in thedrawings a flexible strip with an adhesive coating applied to a surfacethereof, upon which an absorbent pad is placed will be shown and used.

In all embodiments of this invention, cohesives may be used rather thanadhesives to join or bond surfaces together, except, of course, wherepractical considerations require otherwise.

The term weakened line denotes a weakened area. For example it cancomprise one or more weakened lines or weakened areas. Suitable methodsfor forming weakened lines include, cutting, scoring, etching, shaving,perforating, orienting fibers (or polymers or strands) in materials,joints made with releasable bonds, or combinations thereof.Additionally, laminated materials with at least one of the laminateshaving a weakened area such that, when subject to a given force, thematerial will break in a desired location. Furthermore, any othersuitable method of forming a weakened line which will break apart whensubject to a desired force can be used.

Note that throughout the present invention, interchangeability ofcomponents is contemplated and the corresponding terms throughout thisspecification including the claims may therefore be substituted for oneanother as desired as would be reasonable to one skilled in the art. Forexample, a bandage may be substituted for an adhesive strip.

The term package refers to the combination formed for the most part byan upper sheet, a lower sheet, a first tab and an optional releasemeans. However, when the first tab is separated from the other elements,the term “package” refers to the combination formed by the upper sheet,the lower sheet, and the release means (e.g., the release liner).

The term bond denotes bonds, seams and seals, welds, or other suitablemethods of attaching materials to each other unless the contextindicates otherwise.

Throughout this invention, when using a blocking member that is placedbetween, and attached to, both the upper sheet and the lower sheet, itwill be assumed that the upper sheet is attached to the lower sheet.

The present invention is applicable to medical dressings and the likeand is characterized by an adhesive strip interposed between at least anupper sheet and a lower sheet with an attached removal means included toremove the adhesive strip from the package. A release means is includedto protect the adhesive coating of the adhesive-strip. It will beappreciated that the adhesive strip is completely contained between theupper sheet and the lower sheet, the package thus formed constituting asterile enclosure without the need for additional packaging.

It will be further appreciated by one skilled in the art that theembodiments of the present invention may be constructed using differentmaterials, such as polymers, which include polyurethane, polyolefin,polyester, polyethylene, polyethylene/EVA, polyvinyl,polyvinyl-chloride, plastic, paper, treated paper, cloth, and othermaterials of suitable construction as well as laminates formed of anysuitable materials.

A bottom planar view illustration of the flexible strip of the presentinvention with an adhesive layer and an absorbent pad affixed thereon isshown in FIG. 1. The adhesive strip 28 comprises a backing layer 27 uponwhich a pressure-sensitive adhesive surface 25 is applied to a lowersurface 27L. An optional absorbent pad 34 suitable for use on wounds isdisposed upon the adhesive-coated lower surface, leaving exposedadhesive for securing the flexible strip to a desired object. Althoughthe flexible strip is depicted in a rectangular shape, it will beappreciated that other shapes, such as circular, square, “X,” “H,”“clover,” and “star,” are also possible with minimal modifications.

A cross section view illustration of the flexible strip taken along line2-2 of FIG. 1, is shown in FIG. 2. The flexible strip 28 has an uppersurface 27U and an opposed lower surface 27L. A pressure-sensitiveadhesive surface 25 is applied upon the lower surface 27L. An absorbentpad 34, suitable for use on wounds, is centrally disposed upon theadhesive-coated lower surface, leaving exposed adhesive for securing theadhesive strip to a desired object. Note that for illustration purposesthe adhesive surface is depicted as separate from the surface upon whichit rests. In other figures which include the adhesive surface theadhesive strip is omitted from the drawings for clarity purposes but isassumed to be present. When the flexible strip is coated with adhesiveit will be assumed that the lower surface of the adhesive strip is theadhesive surface.

The flexible strip is constructed from any suitable flexible materialrigid enough such that the flexible strip does not fold upon itselfduring application. Alternatively, if the flexible strip is notconstructed from a material of such rigidity, it can be reinforced byusing a rigidity-enhancing carrier as described infra. Suitablematerials for the adhesive strip include polymers, which includepolyurethane, polyolefin, polyester, polyethylene, polyethylene/EVA,polyvinyl, polyvinyl-chloride, plastic, paper, treated paper, cloth, andother materials of suitable construction as well as laminates formed ofany suitable materials.

A cross-sectional view illustration of a first alternative embodiment ofthe adhesive strip or bandage with a full carrier and having inner tabmembers which are attached to the carrier are shown in FIG. 3. Thecarrier 72 is releasably laminated to the upper surface of the adhesivestrip 74, which is releasably laminated to the release liner. Theadhesive strip is preferably constructed from thin films (or other typesof polymers) of suitable known construction, such as polyurethane orpolyethylene, which are commercially available from the 3M Corporation,St. Paul, Minn. The carrier is preferably manufactured from a materialrigid enough to prevent curling of the adhesive strip before it isapplied to the desired surface, and is releasably laminated using asuitable means such as cold bonding. The carrier is shaped and sizedsimilarly to the adhesive strip so that it is substantially or fullycongruent with the adhesive strip. The carrier is preferably bonded tothe adhesive strip using a low-tactile adhesive or other suitable meanssuch as is common in the art. The carrier is bonded more aggressively inthe area that lies adjacent to the leading edge 76 of the adhesive stripthan in other areas of the adhesive strip in order to prevent thecarrier from separating from the adhesive strip during removal of theadhesive strip from the package. In an alternative embodiment, thecarrier is bonded to the adhesive strip uniformly.

A removal tab 78 is attached to the carrier thus providing a means forgrasping the carrier to remove it from the adhesive strip once theadhesive strip is applied to the desired surface. In an alternativeembodiment, the removal tab is formed integrally from the same sheet ofmaterial as the carrier. The removal tab is preferably locatedsubstantially opposite the leading edge of the adhesive strip at a pointwhere it will easily separate the carrier from the adhesive strip. Theremoval tab is folded over itself and may be releasably bonded to a partof the package so that the removal tab unfolds and is easy to grasp oncethe adhesive strip is removed from the package and applied to thedesired surface. In alternative embodiments, the removal tab is notfolded. Optionally, the removal tab may be colored, permitting the userto readily notice if the carrier has not been removed from the adhesivestrip after the adhesive strip has been applied to a desired surface.

An optional slit 80 is made in the carrier in order to reduce the effortrequired to remove the carrier from the adhesive strip. The slit is usedto direct the progression of separation of the carrier from the adhesivestrip so that it will be perpendicular to the more aggressively-bondedarea that lies adjacent to the leading edge of the adhesive strip,thereby reducing the width of the bond at the point of separation. Thisdesign is less likely to disturb the bond between the adhesive strip andthe surface to which it is attached. In an alternative embodiment, theslit may be omitted.

Either or both the upper sheet and the sheet are attached to the innertab member 82 which is itself formed integrally with the carrier. Theinner tab member extends beyond the perimeter of the adhesive strip soas to form an attachment tab. An optional wound pad 84 is attached tothe lower planar surface of the adhesive strip.

Suitable materials for construction of the carrier comprise withoutlimitation polyethylene, polyester, or any other transparent materialand/or polymeric material that is suitable for use with the adhesivestrip. Such materials are commercially available from the DCP-LOHJACorp. or the 3M Corporation Medical Specialties Division, St. Paul,Minn.

A perspective view illustration of a second alternative embodiment ofthe adhesive strip with a one-piece carrier member and inner tab memberattached thereto as is shown in FIG. 4A. The adhesive strip 88 has acarrier 90 bonded thereto. The carrier, inner tab member 92, and removaltab 94, are formed integrally from the same sheet of material. A woundpad 96 is shown attached to the adhesive strip. In alternateembodiments, the inner tab member is not necessarily formed from thesame sheet of material as the optional carrier. Suitable means forattaching the carrier to the adhesive strip depend upon the type ofmaterials used to construct the adhesive strip and may comprise pressuresensitive adhesives, cohesives, or other means which are commonly knownin the art. The bond between the carrier and the adhesive strip shouldbe sufficiently strong so that the carrier does not separate from theadhesive strip before the adhesive strip is applied to a desiredsurface, but should not be so strong that the carrier, when removed fromthe adhesive strip, damages the adhesive bond between the adhesive stripand the desired surface. Such carriers are well known in the art.

The outer perimeter of the carrier is shaped and sized similarly to oridentically to the adhesive strip so that it is substantially or fullycongruent with the outer perimeter of the adhesive strip to which it isattached. In alternative embodiments, the carrier is shaped and sized sothat the outer perimeter of the carrier may be located either inside oroutside the outer perimeter of the adhesive strip. In other alternativeembodiments, the carrier may be die-cut from the same sheet of materialas the adhesive strip and may therefore lie in the same plane as theadhesive strip and may surround the perimeter of the adhesive strip. Itshould be noted that the first end of the inner tab member should alwayslie outside the outer periphery of the adhesive strip.

The carrier has an opening termed a window in its center section, whichenables the user to observe the surface to which it is intended to applythe adhesive strip, thereby allowing for application of the adhesivestrip at the precise location desired. Furthermore, the carrier isshaped so that it generally forms a ring-like structure or frame (whichmay be broken in certain areas) adjacent to the outer perimeter of theadhesive strip which is rigid enough to prevent curling of the adhesivestrip during the process of dispensing and applying the adhesive strip.Alternatively, the carrier may be formed to have other shapes, such asdescribed infra.

In alternative embodiments the inner tab member is attached to thecarrier rather than directly to the adhesive strip itself.

The carrier may be constructed using any suitable material such astreated paper or kraft paper. Alternatively, the carrier may be madefrom other suitable materials as are commonly known in the art and whichinclude, without limitation, polymers, etc. which are commerciallyavailable. Other types of carriers, such as those which are commonlyknown in the arts, are also contemplated by the invention. Carriers arewell known in the art.

The user is also directed to U.S. Pat. No. 5,160,315, to Heinecke, etal., entitled “Combined adhesive strip and transparent dressing deliverysystem,” and U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,738,642 and 6,169,224, both to Heinecke,et al., and entitled “Carrier delivered dressing and method ofmanufacture,” all of which describe transparent dressings with carrierlayers in more detail and are incorporated herein by reference in theirentirety.

The carrier has at least one removal means, such as a removal tab 94, toassist the user in removing the carrier from the adhesive strip.Preferably, the removal tab is located within the interior portion ofthe carrier. Alternatively, however, the pull tab may extend beyond theouter perimeter of the carrier. An optional slit 100 or weakened line islocated adjacent to the removal tab. In alternative embodiments, aplurality of removal tabs are used.

In alternative embodiments the carrier comprises one or more holdingmeans. The holding means functions to enable the user to grasp and holdthe carrier and the attached adhesive strip. The pull cover functions asa suitable holding means. An alternative holding means comprises a tabthat projects beyond the outer perimeter of the adhesive strip and whichis large enough for a user to grasp.

A cross section view illustration of the flexible strip and carriercombination of the present invention, taken along line 4B-4B of FIG. 4A,is shown in FIG. 4B. The flexible strip 88 has an upper surface 88U andan opposed lower surface 88L. A pressure-sensitive adhesive surface 85is applied to the lower surface 88L. An absorbent pad 96, suitable foruse on wounds, is centrally disposed upon the adhesive-coated lowersurface, leaving exposed adhesive for securing the adhesive strip to adesired object. The carrier layer is laminated upon the upper surface ofthe adhesive strip. Note that for illustration purposes the adhesivesurface is depicted as separate from the surface upon which it rests. Inother figures which include the adhesive surface the adhesive surface isomitted from the drawings for clarity purposes but is assumed to bepresent.

A cross sectional view illustration of the adhesive strip or bandage anddispenser package with the side edges unsealed (for illustrationalpurposes), constructed in accordance with the first major embodiment ofthe present invention, taken along line 5-5 of FIG. 6 is shown in FIG.5. A dispenser package 10 comprises a package in which an adhesive strip28 is incorporated. The package 10 comprises an upper sheet 12, a lowersheet 24, and a release liner 40. The adhesive strip upon which anadhesive surface is applied to the lower surface 28L is suitable formedical applications (e.g., first aid bandages or medical patches), butthe invention is not limited to such. The lower surface of the adhesivestrip is in direct contact with and is protected by at least one releaseliner. An optional wound pad 34 is attached to the adhesive surface ofthe adhesive strip.

The release liner has an optional weakened line 60 which helps therelease liner fold when the package is opened, and also lowers the forcerequired to remove the release liner from an opened package. If a singlerelease liner is used, then the release liner extends beyond the outerperiphery of the adhesive strip so that the adhesive strip does notadhere to either the upper sheet or the lower sheet. Alternatively, if aplurality of release liners is used, then the release liners can beshaped and sized as desired as long as they operate within the contextof this invention. In yet other alternative embodiments, the releaseliner does not extend beyond the outer periphery of the bandage.

The release liner preferably has a low coefficient of cohesion so thatit is easy to remove from the adhesive strip. Additionally, the releaseliner is flexible enough so that the flexible strip is easily removedfrom the package. Release liners are well known in the art, and maycomprise, for example, a silicone-coated treated paper.

The removal means comprises an inner tab member 36 which has a first end39 and a second end 38 and is releasably attached to the upper surfaceof the adhesive strip at a location which is proximate to the leadingedge 41 of the adhesive strip using any suitable means which wouldenable the inner tab member to separate the adhesive strip from therelease liner when the package is opened. An optional removal tab 50 islocated proximate to the second end of the inner tab member and shouldbe sized such that a user may easily grasp it during use. The first endof the inner tab member extends beyond the exterior periphery of theadhesive strip. The inner tab member can also be releasably attached toother areas of the adhesive strip as desired. A suitable means ofattaching the inner tab member to the adhesive strip is by using apressure-sensitive adhesive applied to the inner tab member so that theinner tab member is releasably attached to the leading edge of theadhesive strip. Alternatively, any other suitable means of attaching theinner tab member to the adhesive strip can be used. The tenacity of thebond between the adhesive strip and the inner tab member should be greatenough such that the adhesive strip remains attached to the inner tabmember until the adhesive strip is applied to a desired object. Caremust be taken so that the strength of the bond between the inner tabmember and the adhesive strip allows the inner tab member to be removedfrom the adhesive strip with minimal effort and without damaging thebond formed by the adhesive surface on the lower surface of the adhesivestrip once the adhesive strip has been applied to the desired surface.Alternatively, the inner tab member is attached to, or formed integrallywith, a carrier which is attached to the adhesive strip or is releasablyattached to the adhesive surface of the adhesive strip.

The removal tab is optionally folded over itself and releasably bondedto the lower surface of the upper sheet such that the removal tab peelsaway from the upper sheet when the package is opened and the bandage isremoved. This will cause the removal tab to extend outward from thebandage when the bandage is applied and thus be more readily seen andpulled by the user.

The upper sheet has an upper surface 61, a lower surface 70, a first end54 and a second end 58, a first end region 48, a second end region 49,two edge regions and a weakened line 16 (e.g., scoring, thinning, diecutting, laser scoring, or other suitable method). Likewise, the lowersheet has an upper surface 51, a lower surface 53, a first end 52 and asecond end 56, a first end region 55, a second end region 47, two edgeregions and a weakened line 44. A cohesive is applied to at least theedge regions and the end regions of the lower surface of the uppersheet. A cohesive is applied to at least the edge regions and the endregions of the upper surface of the lower sheet. The upper sheet and thelower sheet are larger than the combination formed by the adhesive stripand the inner tab member so as to be capable of forming a seam aroundthe perimeter of the package formed by the combination of the uppersheet and the lower sheet. The weakened lines of the upper sheet and thelower sheet substantially superpose each other. But, in alternativeembodiments the weakened lines of the upper sheet and lower sheet onlysuperpose each other in that area which is closest to the edge regions.The release liner is attached to the lower sheet using any suitableadhesive or bonding method. The inner tab member is sandwiched betweenand attached to either or both the upper sheet and the lower sheet usingadhesive, cohesive, pressure bonding or other suitable bonding method.Alternatively, the upper sheet and the lower sheet may be sealedtogether using any suitable means.

The end regions of the upper sheet are attached to the end regions ofthe lower sheet so as to form a first tab 110 and a second tab 112. Therelease liner is attached to the lower sheet adjacent to the weakenedline of the lower sheet. The bond between the release liner and thelower sheet preferably does not separate in use, and should be able toflex sufficiently in order to facilitate the separation of any bondsadjacent to this bond and so that the adhesive strip can easily beseparated from the release liner. One suitable method of bonding therelease liner to the interior end of the lower sheet is by using ahigh-tactile pressure-sensitive adhesive. Alternatively, other suitablemethods as are well known in the art can also be used. The tab extensionis sandwiched between and attached to both the upper sheet and the lowersheet. In alternative embodiments the end region of the first sheet andthe end region of the second sheet are joined and share a commonweakened line.

The lower surface of the adhesive strip is releasably attached to, andprotected by, all or a part of the release liner. The adhesive strip isretained within the package by either or both the release liner and theenvelope formed by the attached upper and lower sheets. A low-tackadhesive (or cohesive) is optionally applied to either or both the uppersheet and the lower sheet in the area where it contacts the adhesivestrip, the carrier, and/or the release liner, so as to maintain thedesired amount of friction when removing the adhesive strip from thepackage.

The first tab, suitable for grasping, is formed by attaching the firsttab regions of the upper sheet and the lower sheet to each other. Theoptional second tab is formed by attaching the upper sheet and the lowersheet to each other at a location proximate to either the second end ofthe upper sheet or the trailing end of the lower sheet, and should besuitable for grasping. The bond between the upper sheet and the lowersheet at this location should be sufficiently aggressive so that thesesheets do not substantially pull apart from each other when opening thepackage. Additionally, the second tab should be of sufficient size sothat the user can easily grasp it during use. In an alternativeembodiment, the upper sheet and the lower sheet are formed from onesheet of material by folding the lower sheet across its width(transverse axis) at a location that is adjacent to the second end ofthe lower sheet. Alternatively, the upper sheet and the lower sheet areformed from a single sheet of material which is folded across itslongitudinal axis so as to form both the upper sheet and the lowersheet. Additionally, the sheets are bonded together so as to form thepackage and the second tab. Alternatively, the second tab may beomitted.

Preferably, the upper sheet and the lower sheet are constructed fromflexible treated paper as is common in the art. Alternatively, othermaterial may be used. An optional wound pad is attached to the lowersurface of the adhesive strip. Alternatively, a plurality of optionalwound pads may be used.

An exploded perspective view illustration of the adhesive strip orbandage and dispenser package according to the first major embodiment ofthe current invention is shown in FIG. 6 The upper sheet and the lowersheet are releasably attached to each other along their outer perimeter(i.e., the region defined by the edge regions 48 and the first andsecond end regions 55 and 47 respectively—the upper sheet having similaredge and end regions which superpose those of the lower sheet which arenot shown) except for that portion where they are attached to the innertab member, so as to form a sterile enclosure for the adhesive stripcontained within. One suitable method of attaching the upper sheet tothe lower sheet comprises a cohesive or optionally a pressure-sensitiveadhesive, pressure bonding, heat bonding, or other suitable bondingmethod. In alternative embodiments, cold bonding, thermal bonding,pressure bonding, or other suitable bonds, which are common in the art,may also be used. Care should be taken so that the upper sheet and thelower sheet can separate far enough from each other so as to allow theadhesive strip to be easily removed from the package. An optional woundpad is attached to the lower planar surface of the adhesive strip.

An exploded perspective view illustration of the adhesive strip orbandage and dispenser package using a carrier and blocking memberaccording to an alternative embodiment of the first major embodiment ofthe current invention is shown in FIG. 7. This embodiment is similar tothe embodiment illustrated in FIG. 1, the difference being the inclusionof a blocking member 70 which is well known in the art, which is used toattach the upper sheet to the lower sheet. The upper sheet and the lowersheet are attached to the adjacent side of the blocking member.

A cross-sectional view illustration of the adhesive strip or bandage anddispenser package according to the first major embodiment of the presentinvention, taken along line 8-8 of FIG. 6, is shown in FIG. 8. The sideedge regions 61 of the upper sheet are attached to side edge regions 48of the lower sheet so as to seal the package along the outer peripheryof the combination formed by the adhesive strip and the releasablyattached release liner and so as to provide an optional sterile envelopefor the adhesive strip.

A detailed top-view illustration of an alternative embodiment of thefirst major embodiment of the present invention with the upper sheetpartially peeled away is shown in FIG. 9. The package 114 is essentiallysimilar to the package which is shown and described in FIGS. 5 and 6,the only difference being that the inner tab member 116 is shapeddifferently. The width (W′) of the inner tab member which is located inthat area which lies between the weakened line 128 and the first end 130of the upper sheet (i.e., the first tab region) is narrower than thewidth (W″) of the package. Alternatively, if sterility is not desiredthen the tab extension can be as wide as (or wider than) the width ofthe package. The weakened line 128 extends across the width of thepackage. The width of the inner tab member should be less than the widthof the cavity which is defined as that area which lies between edgeregion bonds of the upper sheet and the lower sheet. This will assurethat the inner tab means does not become stuck to the interior of thepackage. The upper sheet 118 is peeled back to expose the lower sheet124 and the bandage 120, the removal tab 126, and the release liner 122which are contained within the package. The weakened line of the lowersheet extends across the width of the package and superposes (or atleast partially superposes) the weakened line of the upper sheet.

In alternative embodiments, the release liner is provided with a releasemeans so that at least a major portion of it may be separated from thelower sheet. Without limitation, suitable release means comprise areleasable bond or a weakened line (e.g., either a scored or perforatedline) on the lower sheet or on the release liner so as to enable therelease liner to be separated from the package 114 after the package isopened.

An alternative embodiment of the first major embodiment of the presentinvention has optional separation notches located on either side of theweakened line between the weakened line and the adjacent side edge ofthe upper and lower sheet. The optional separation notches concentrateseparation forces on the weakened line causing it to separate with lessforce, thus reducing the effort required by the user to open thepackage. Although the separation notches are shown as V-shaped cutouts,the separation notches can also be a slit or other weakening.

A detailed cross-sectional view illustration of a first alternativeembodiment of a method of attaching the inner tab member to an adhesivestrip or bandage is shown in FIG. 10A. The second end 154 of the innertab member 150 is releasably attached to the adhesive surface of theadhesive strip 152. The second end of the inner tab member is adapted tohave a desired coefficient of adhesion in order that it remain attachedto the adhesive strip until the adhesive strip is attached to thedesired object. The aggressiveness of the attachment is preferably suchthat the inner tab member remains attached to the adhesive strip untilthe adhesive strip is applied to a desired object, at which time theinner tab member is able to separate from the adhesive strip withoutdamaging the bond between the adhesive strip and the desired object towhich it is attached. The release liner 156 is attached to the lowersheet 158 at a location proximate to the weakened lines 164. The innertab member is sandwiched between and attached to the upper sheet 160 andthe lower sheet in the first tab region 162. In alternative embodiments,the leading end of the release liner can be folded over itself before itis attached to the lower sheet.

A detailed cross sectional view illustration of the present inventionshowing an alternative attachment of said release liner to said lowersheet using a folded release liner is shown in FIG. 10B. The releaseliner 57 is folded proximate to its leading end 59 and attached to theupper surface of the lower sheet.

In various embodiments of the present invention, without limitation, thevarious tabs which are used for grasping may be modified to enable theuser more easily to use the present invention. Modifications include,for example, (1) coloring to contrast with the rest of the package, (2)embossing to enhance user touch, feel, and sight, (3) cutting in a wayto indicate direction, and (4) numbering, embellishing with arrows, orprinting with directions to indicate proper use.

It will also be appreciated that various embodiments of the presentinvention can be used to dispense items other than adhesive strips orbandages, such as surgical drapes, transdermal patches or the like. Inan alternative embodiment, the package or adhesive strip may be invertedso that the adhesive strip emerges with the adhesive surface facing up.

A cross sectional view illustration of an alternative embodiment of thefirst major embodiment of the present invention having an adhesiveapplied to both the upper and lower surfaces of the adhesive strip andincluding a carrier is shown in FIG. 11. The package 170 is similar toother packages described elsewhere in this document. The release liner172 is attached to the lower sheet 174 and is releasably attached to theadhesive strip 176. The inner tab member 186 is formed integrally withthe carrier from the same sheet of material. The inner tab member isattached to the upper sheet 184 and the lower sheet 174 in the first tabarea 190 which lies between the weakened lines 192 of the upper sheetand the lower sheet and the first ends 194 and 196 of the upper sheetand the lower sheet respectively. The second tab 198 is suitable forgrasping by the user.

The adhesive strip has an adhesive applied to both the upper surface176U and the lower surface 176L. A wound pad 178 is optionally attachedto the adhesive strip as shown in this example. For example, a carrier180 (with a window) is attached to the adhesive strip. The upper releaseliner 182 (which in this example is also a carrier window section) fitswithin the window formed by the carrier sheet and is releasably attachedto the adhesive strip. The upper release liner is removed eitherautomatically during the removal of the pull cover and the adhesivestrip from the package in a manner similar to that whereby the releaseliner is removed, or manually after the adhesive strip is removed fromthe package. If it is desired that the upper release liner be removedduring the removal of the adhesive strip from the package, then theupper release liner should be constructed similarly to the release linerand should be attached to the upper sheet in a manner similar to thatwhereby the release liner is attached to the lower sheet as describedelsewhere in this document. For example, the leading edge of the upperrelease liner is attached to the upper sheet at bond 105. Alternatively,if it is desired that the upper release liner be removed from theadhesive strip after the package is opened, then the upper release linershould be shaped and sized similar to, or larger than, that upperportion of the adhesive strip which has adhesive applied to it, toprotect the adhesive which is applied to the upper surface of theadhesive strip and should not hinder the operation of the invention.Additionally, the upper release liner should include a means (e.g., atab) to aid the user in removing it from the adhesive strip.

Additionally, if the adhesive strip or bandage comprises a carrier“window” (e.g., such as that which is used in 3M TEGADERM™ TransparentDressings, Original Frame Style, numbers 1634, 1626, 1628, and 1629, see3M product catalog, which is similar to the upper release liner 340 asshown and will henceforth also be called a carrier window section) whichmust be removed before application of the adhesive strip or bandage tothe desired surface, then the carrier “window” section may be attachedto either the upper sheet or the lower sheet in a manner similar to thatby which the release liner is attached to the lower sheet as describedhereinabove. This would allow for the removal of the carrier “window”section during the removal of the adhesive strip or bandage from thepackage while leaving the carrier (if present) attached to the adhesivestrip until after the adhesive strip is attached to a desired object. Itis noted that the upper surface of adhesive strips which use carrier“window” sections generally have either no adhesive applied or have anadhesive which is not noticeable.

A cross sectional view illustration of an individual package accordingto the first major embodiment of the present invention (as shown in FIG.5) as it is opened and the adhesive strip being removed from the packageis shown in FIG. 12A. The package is held by the first and second tabs200 and 202, respectively. The user then pulls the first and second tabsin opposite directions (as indicated by arrow TTT), which causes thefirst tab to break its bond with the upper sheet 204 and the lower sheet206 at the weakened lines resulting in separation ends 207. If desired,the user can slightly twist the first tab in relation to the body of thepackage to aid in the separation of the first tab from the package. Theadhesive strip 208 (or bandage) then separates from the release liner210 beginning at the leading edge of the adhesive strip (or bandage) andcontinues separating until the adhesive strip (or bandage) fullydetaches from the release liner 205. During the separation of theadhesive strip (or bandage) from the release liner, the release linerfolds over itself and is pulled out of the envelope formed by the upperand lower sheets. After the pull cover and the attached adhesive strip(or bandage) are separated from the upper sheet, the lower sheet and therelease liner, the adhesive strip (or bandage) is applied to the desiredsurface with the aid of the first tab and any other optional holdingmeans. The adhesive strip (or bandage) is then applied to the desiredsurface.

A side view illustration of an inner tab member and first tab beingremoved from an adhesive strip of the first major embodiment of thepresent invention is shown in FIG. 12B. Note that cross hatching hasbeen used to better illustrate the invention. The adhesive strip hasbeen applied to a desired object (e.g., the user's hand, which is notshown). The inner tab member 213 and the attached first tab 212 areremoved by pulling the removal tab 214 in the direction of arrow VVV sothat the inner tab member is pulled back over itself and separated fromthe bandage 208. The wound pad 209 is attached to the bandage. The innertab member and the attached first tab are then discarded. If a singlepackage is used alone, the package is then discarded. Alternatively, ifa dispenser pack is used, then the release liner is optionally separatedfrom the remainder of the package and discarded.

An exploded perspective view illustration of the adhesive strip orbandage and dispenser package constructed in accordance with the secondmajor embodiment of the present invention is shown in FIG. 13. Thedispenser package 560 comprises a package in which an adhesive strip 562is incorporated. The package comprises an upper sheet 564, a lower sheet566, and a release liner 568. A removal means is included to remove theadhesive strip or bandage from the package. The adhesive strip, uponwhich an adhesive surface is applied to the lower surface, can besuitable for medical applications (e.g., first aid bandages or medicalpatches) but the invention is not limited to such. The lower surface ofthe adhesive strip is in direct contact with and is protected by atleast one release liner. An optional wound pad 570 is attached to theadhesive surface of the adhesive strip.

The release liner has a low coefficient of cohesion so that it is easyto remove from the adhesive strip. Additionally, the release liner isflexible enough so that the flexible strip is easily removed from thepackage. Release liners are well known in the art.

The upper sheet, has an upper surface 572, a lower surface 574, a firstend 576, a second end 578, a second end region, two edge regions, andone or more optional weakened lines 580 (e.g., scoring, thinning, diecutting, laser scoring, or other suitable method) which define a pullcover 582. The lower sheet has an upper surface 590, a lower surface592, a first end 594 and a second end 596, a first end region 598, asecond end region 600, two edge regions 602, and a second tab region604. By way of example only, the second end region and the two edgeregions of the upper sheet superpose the corresponding locations of thelower sheet. An optional adhesive/cohesive is applied to at least theedge regions and the end region of the lower surface of the upper sheet.An optional adhesive/cohesive is applied to at least the edge regionsand the end regions of the upper surface of the lower sheet. The size ofthe combination formed by the upper sheet and the attached pull cover issimilar to the size of the lower sheet. The size of the lower sheet islarger than the size of the combination formed by the adhesive strip,the releasably attached release liner (and the optional carrier) so asto be capable of forming a seam around the perimeter of the packageformed by the combination of the upper sheet the releasably attachedpull cover and the lower sheet. Alternatively, the upper sheet and thelower sheet could be sealed together using any suitable means. The firstend region of the pull cover is releasably attached to the lower sheetusing an adhesive/cohesive or other suitable bonding method. The releaseliner is attached to the lower sheet using any suitableadhesive/cohesive or other suitable bonding method. In optionalembodiments, only the leading end 612 of the release liner is attachedto the lower sheet (proximate to the first end region of the lowersheet). In yet other alternative embodiments, a substantial part of therelease liner is attached to the lower sheet. In alternativeembodiments, the outer perimeter of the package is not fully sealed.

The bond between the release liner and the lower sheet preferably doesnot separate in use, and should be able to flex sufficiently in order tofacilitate the separation of any bonds adjacent to this bond and so thatthe adhesive strip can easily be separated from the release liner.

The removal means comprises a pull cover which has a first end 576, asecond end 578, and a first tab 606 which is proximate to the first endand is suitable for grasping. The pull cover is releasably attached tothe upper sheet at the weakened lines 580, and is releasably attached tothe upper surface of the adhesive strip at a location which is proximateto the leading edge 608 of the adhesive strip using any other suitablemeans which would enable the pull cover to separate the adhesive stripfrom the release liner when the package is opened. The pull cover canalso be releasably attached to other areas of the adhesive strip asdesired. A suitable means of attaching the pull cover to the adhesivestrip is by using a pressure-sensitive adhesive 610 applied to the pullcover so that the pull cover is releasably attached to the leading edgeof the adhesive strip. Other means of attaching the pull cover to theadhesive strip include double sided adhesive tape or any other suitablemethods as are common and well known in the art. The tenacity of thebond between the adhesive strip and the pull cover should be greatenough such that the adhesive strip remains attached to the pull coveruntil the adhesive strip is applied to a desired object. Care must betaken so that the strength of the bond between the pull cover and theadhesive strip allows the pull cover to be removed from the adhesivestrip with minimal effort and without damaging the bond formed by theadhesive surface on the lower surface of the adhesive strip once theadhesive strip has been applied to the desired surface. Alternatively,the pull cover is attached to, or formed integrally with, a carrierwhich is attached to the adhesive strip or is releasably attached to theadhesive surface of the adhesive strip. When the package is opened thepull cover separates from the upper sheet at the weakened lines. Thebond between the upper sheet and the lower sheet is stronger than thebond between the upper sheet and the pull cover so that when the packageis opened the pull cover separates from the upper sheet along theweakened lines without disturbing the bond between the upper sheet andthe lower sheet.

The lower surface of the adhesive strip is releasably attached to, andprotected by, all or a part of the release liner. The adhesive strip isretained within the package by either or both the release liner and/orthe envelope formed by the envelope formed by the attached first andlower sheets. In alternative embodiments, a low-tack adhesive (orcohesive) is optionally applied to either or both the upper sheet and/orthe lower sheet in the area where it contacts the adhesive strip, thecarrier and/or release liner, so as to maintain the desired amount offriction when removing the adhesive strip from the package.

In an alternative embodiment, the upper sheet and the lower sheet areformed from one sheet of material by folding the lower sheet across itswidth (transverse axis) at a location that is adjacent to the second endof the lower sheet. Alternatively, the upper sheet and the lower sheetare formed from a single sheet of material which is folded across itslongitudinal axis so as to form both the upper sheet and the lowersheet. Additionally, the sheets are bonded together so as to form thepackage and the second tab.

Preferably, the upper sheet and the lower sheet are constructed fromflexible treated paper as is common in the art. Alternatively, othermaterial may be used. An optional wound pad is attached to the lowersurface of the adhesive strip. Alternatively, a plurality of wound padsmay be used.

A cross sectional view illustration of the adhesive strip or bandage anddispenser package according to the second major embodiment of thecurrent invention taken along line 14-14 of FIG. 13 is shown in FIG.14A. One suitable method of attaching the upper sheet 564 to the lowersheet 566 comprises a cohesive or, optionally, a pressure sensitiveadhesive or other suitable bonding method which is compatible with thematerials used. In alternative embodiments, cold bonding, thermalbonding, pressure bonding, or other suitable bonds, which are common inthe art, may also be used. The bond between the pull cover and the firstend region of the lower sheet can be similar to, or different from thebond between the upper sheet to the lower sheet depending upon thedesired release force required. If the pull cover is not as large as orlarger than the adhesive strip or bandage then care should be taken sothat the upper sheet and the lower sheet can separate far enough fromeach other or, that the upper sheet can flex sufficiently so as to allowthe adhesive strip to be easily removed from the package as it isopened. The release liner is attached to the lower sheet. In alternativeembodiments the release liner is attached to the lower sheet proximateto the first end region 598. The first tab 606 and the second tab 604are sized such that they are suitable for grasping. Alternatively, ifthe second tab is affixed to some object, then, the second tab can besmaller as desired. In other alternative embodiments the second tabbeyond the edge regions of the lower sheet and be affixed to some objectso as to position the package in a desired location.

A cross sectional view illustration of the adhesive strip or bandage anddispenser package according to second major embodiment of the currentinvention with the upper sheet, the pull cover and the attached adhesivestrip peeled back is shown in FIG. 14B. The adhesive strip is attachedto the pull cover using an adhesive. The second end region of the uppersheet and the lower sheet are sealed together, but, for purposes ofillustration, the side regions of the upper sheet and the lower sheetare also not sealed together.

A cross sectional view illustration of the adhesive strip or bandage anddispenser package according to the second major embodiment of thecurrent invention as it is being opened non-axially and the pull coverand the releasably attached adhesive strip being pulled away from thelower sheet and the release liner is shown in FIG. 14C. The pull coveris seen separating from the upper sheet at the weakened lines. Theweakened lines continue to separate until the pull cover and thereleasably attached adhesive strip are fully separated from the package.

In use the user grasps the first tab and second tab and then pulls themin the direction shown by arrow LLL which separates the pull cover fromthe upper sheet (at the weakened lines) and the lower sheet and alsoseparates the adhesive strip (which is releasably attached to the pullcover) from the release liner. In alternative embodiments, the secondtab is attached to a locating means. This illustration demonstrates thenon-axial opening of the current invention.

A cross-sectional view illustration of the adhesive strip or bandage anddispenser package according to the second major embodiment of thepresent invention, taken along line 15-15 of FIG. 13, is shown in FIG.15. The side edge regions 564 of the upper sheet is attached to sideedge regions 602 of the lower sheet so as to seal the package 560 alongthe outer periphery of the combination formed by the adhesive strip andthe releasably attached release liner and so as to provide an optionalsterile envelope for the adhesive strip. Suitable, optional methods ofattaching the release liner to the lower sheet are also shown anddescribed in U.S. Publication No. US20040004014, entitled “BandagePackage and Dispenser,” cited hereinabove.

A detailed top view illustration of the adhesive strip or bandage anddispenser package according to a first alternative embodiment of thesecond major alternative embodiment is shown in FIG. 16. The weakenedlines 640 extend from the first end 642 of the upper sheet 650 andintersect with each other at a terminal point 652 which is between thefirst end and the second end 634 of the upper sheet, as desired so as toform a chevron. The leading end of the adhesive strip 644 is attached tothe pull cover 632. Optional separation notches 654 are provided to aidin the initial separation of the weakened lines. The separation notchescan be cutouts, scores, weakened lines, etc. This would reduce thepeel-type stress between the first and lower sheet when the package isopened, and would assure that the upper sheet does not separate from thelower sheet. The first tab is 656 shaped as desired. The second tab 658is extended and may be sized as desired. For example, if it is intendedthat individual units of the bandage dispensing package are to be usedseparately by holding them in a users hand, then the first and secondtabs should be sized sufficiently so that they can be grasped by theuser. But, in alternative embodiments where the second tab is attachedto a positioning means then the second tab can be shaped as required.For example, the second tab may extend beyond the lengths of the firsttab or the second tab can be folded over itself and extended to thesides of the package for attachment to an attachment and positioningmeans. The removal means forms a pull tab 659 which is located oppositethe first tab. In optional embodiments the pull tab is located on thecarrier.

In alternative embodiments the weakened lines extend from the first endto a point which is anywhere between the first end and the second end ofthe upper sheet. In yet other alternative embodiments the weakened lineor lines intersect with other weakened lines the shape being unimportantas long as the shape of the weakened lines allow the pull cover to beremoved from the upper sheet. The pull cover can be shaped and sized asdesired as long as the first cover does not interfere with the adhesivestrip as it is being removed from the package.

Depending upon the materials used, and the location of adhesives used tobond the pull cover to the adhesive strip, the pull cover may have anatural tendency to curl thus making it easier to remove after theadhesive strip has been applied to a desired object.

A wound pad 637 is attached to the lower surface of the adhesive strip.The edge regions 648 of the upper sheet and the lower sheet are attachedto each other so as to envelope the adhesive strip contained within thepackage. The edge regions of the first and lower sheet should notseparate from each other as the package is opened. The weakened linesare placed apart from each other so that the first cover does notinterfere with the adhesive strip as it is removed from the package. Asthe pull cover is separated from the upper sheet the separationprogresses along the weakened lines until it reaches point 652 at whichpoint the separation member separates from the upper sheet. A pull tab,suitable for grasping, is then formed proximate to the point 652. Thisdesign has an advantage of a shorter length pull cover which would easeapplication of the adhesive strip or bandage in small radiusapplications. The weakened lines could converge with each other usingstraight or bent line.

The release liner is attached to the lower sheet using anadhesive/cohesive or other suitable method which is compatible with thematerials used. The release liner could be attached along its entirelength or alternatively, could be attached at its leading end and at anyother optional points for any desired length. Alternatively, theweakened lines can be placed such that the upper cover rubs against theadhesive strip as the adhesive strip is removed from the package. Thiscan create a desired amount of retention force.

A cross sectional view illustration of a second alternative embodimentof second major embodiment of the present invention, which shows analternative attachment of the release liner to the lower sheet is shownin FIG. 17. The release liner 660 is attached to the lower sheet 662along a substantial part of the release liners length. Those parts ofthe release liner which are not attached to the lower sheet are free topeel away from both the bandage 664 as the bandage is removed from thepackage and may extend beyond the perimeter of the package as thepackage 674 is opened. The bandage is attached to the pull cover 670,and the upper sheet 672 is attached to the lower sheet as describedsupra. In alternative embodiments, the leading end 666 of the releaseliner is attached to the lower sheet only proximate to the first endregion 668 of the lower sheet. In yet other alternative embodiments, theleading end of the release liner and an additional minor portion of therelease liner are attached to the lower sheet. In yet other alternativeembodiments, the release liner extends beyond the outer periphery of theadhesive strip and is folded back over itself and then attached to thelower sheet.

A detailed top view illustration of a third alternative embodiment ofthe second major embodiment of the present invention, which shows analternative second tab which is suitable for side attachment is shown inFIG. 18. This embodiment is similar to the embodiment illustrated inFIG. 13 the difference being the addition of transverse extensionappendages 690 which are formed integrally with the second tab 692 suchthat when the second tab is folded at optional fold 694, such that itnow is located under the lower sheet 698, it extends beyond the outerperiphery of the edge regions of the larger of either or both the uppersheet 696 and/or the lower sheet. The appendages are then attached to alocating means. This design is suitable for axial pull dispensing packswhich will be discussed infra. The first tab 600 may be extended asdesired depending upon application. In alternative embodiments, thetransverse extension appendages can be formed from a separate sheet ofmaterial which is attached to the second tab using an adhesive or othermeans.

A third alternative embodiment of the present invention has analternative second tab which is suitable for side attachment. The secondtab is folded under the lower sheet at optional fold 694. In alternativeembodiments, the second tab is not folded and extends forward of thepackage.

A side view illustration of the second major embodiment of the presentinvention attached to and held in position by a locating means is shownin FIG. 19A. The package 720 is held in position by two locating means.A first locating means 722 is attached to the second tab 724 and holdsthe second tab in position. A second locating means 726 holds thepackage from substantially lifting while it is being opened but allowsthe package to slide relative to it as the package is being opened. Thesecond locating means is optionally in contact with the upper sheet 728and/or the pull cover 730. The first tab 732 is shaped and sized suchthat it can be easily grasped by the user. The first and second locatingmeans are separated from each other by a distance DD such that thepackage can slide between it when the package is opened. The first andsecond locating means can superpose each other or be set back from eachother by a distance DDD as shown. The distance between the first andsecond locating means will be coined an exit window. The first andsecond locating means should be located such that when the user pullsthe first tab, the package begins to pass through the exit window andbegins to open. In the preferred embodiment the user pulls the first tabin a direction indicated by arrow QQ, but, in alternative embodiments,the user can pull the first tab in a direction indicated by arrow QQQ orin other directions which are suitable for the design. The locatingmeans is as wide as or wider than the width of either or both the uppersheet and/or the lower sheet 734 so that it extends across the width ofthe package and so that it extends over both edge regions of either orboth the upper sheet and/or the lower sheet. Alternatively, the locatingmeans in not as wide as the width of the package. Suitable locatingmeans can comprise a matchbook-type container as will be discussedinfra.

A side view illustration of the second major embodiment of the presentinvention which shows a package being opened by pulling linearly isshown in FIG. 19B. The user grasps the first tab and pulls it away fromthe dispenser linearly in the direction indicated by arrow FFF. The pullcover is seen separating from the upper sheet at the weakened lines. Theweakened lines continue to separate until the pull cover and thereleasably attached adhesive strip 736 are fully separated from thepackage. Alternatively the user can pull in upward or in otherdirections as desired.

A side view illustration of an alternative embodiment of the secondmajor embodiment of the present invention attached to and held inposition by a locating means is shown in FIG. 20A. The package 754 isessentially similar to the embodiment shown in FIG. 19A and described inthe corresponding text. The difference being that the second tab 740 isfolded over itself before being attached to the first locating member742 and the placement of the second holding member 746 substantiallysuperposing the first holding member. Additionally, the first tab 756protrudes beyond the exterior periphery of the lower sheet as shown.

A side view illustration of an alternative embodiment of the secondmajor embodiment of the present invention which shows the package beingopened is illustrated in FIG. 20B. The user grasps the first tab andpulls it away from the dispenser linearly in the direction indicated byline FFF′. The pull cover 748 is seen separating from the upper sheet750 at the weakened lines. The weakened lines continue to separate untilthe pull cover and the releasably attached adhesive strip 752 are fullyseparated from the package 754. Alternatively the user can pull atslight angles to line FFF′.

Suitable locating means include adhesives, staples, pressure bonds, orother suitable bonding method or locking method which would hold thedesired object in place.

Additionally, other types of adhesive strip or bandage packages may besubstituted for adhesive strip or bandage package which is shown anddescribed in the current document. For example, QwikStrip™ brandbandages which are commercially available and is shown and described inU.S. Pat. Nos. 6,124,522 and 6,225,522, entitled “Packaging forAdhesive-Sided Articles to Allow One Handed Application,” and “Assemblyfor Dispensing Packaged Adhesive-Sided Articles,” respectively, toSchroeder, both of which are incorporated herein by reference in theirentirety, can be used as a substitute in the various discloseddispensing packs and container assemblies. Likewise, other designs suchas is described in U.S. Pat. No. 5,685,833, to Tungren, entitled“Sterile Adhesive Bandage and Associated Methods,” which is incorporatedherein by reference in its entirety, can be substituted instead withlittle modification.

The present invention provides several schemes for dispensing aplurality of flexible strips, adhesive strips, bandages, or otherelements, as described elsewhere in this document, from a dispensingpack. These are illustrated in FIGS. 21 through 28B. The dispensing packcomprises a plurality of packages arranged in rows so as to form adispensing pack. It should further be noted that the rows can bestaggered, if desired. Each scheme will now be described in more detail.

An exploded perspective view illustration of a first embodiment of adispensing pack is shown in FIG. 21. The dispensing pack 248 comprises aplurality of packages which are aligned along their longitudinal axis inthe same or substantially the same plane (which may include a curvedplane). The individual upper sheets 254 and lower sheets 260 areattached to each other. A means for holding individual packages 250functions to hold the packages in close proximity to one another. Asuitable means for holding individual packages in alignment comprises acontinuous sheet 252 long enough such that multiple packages can bemounted thereto. Alternatively, a suitable means for holding individualpackages in alignment comprises a continuous upper sheet and/or lowersheet long enough such that multiple packages can be mounted thereto. Anoptional rigidity-enhancing means is associated with either the lowersheet or the upper sheet. In an alternative embodiment, either thecontinuous sheet, the upper sheet, or the lower sheet is constructedfrom a substantially rigid material. A means for holding the dispensingpack is used to hold the dispensing pack in position for dispensing theadhesive strips. If a suitable means for holding the dispensing pack isemployed, then the second tab may be omitted. The first tabs 254 areconnected to the upper and lower sheets via weekend lines 258. Moreover,in alternative embodiments, the first tabs 256 are separated from eachother by optional score lines and are not connected in any way.

A perspective view illustration of a second embodiment of a dispensingpack is shown in FIG. 22. The dispensing pack comprises a continuousroll sheet of material upon which a plurality of packages 270 arealigned and attached along their lateral axis. The first tabs 268 arenot attached to the continuous roll sheet of material and extend suchthat the user can easily grasp them and separate them at weakened lines266. The weakened lines include an optional notch on each side to reducethe effort required to remove the first tab from rest the package at theweakened line. The continuous roll dispensing pack 262 can be placedwithin a dispenser adapted to support and contain the continuous rolldispensing pack. To reduce the likelihood of jamming, the first tabs canbe releasably attached to either the continuous sheet or the upper sheet264 of the preceding package using a light tack adhesive. This lighttack adhesive will allow the first tabs to separate from either thepreceding package or the continuous sheet when the continuous sheet istorn away from the roll. Additionally, a low tack adhesive or cohesive(or other bonding means) can be applied to the upper surface of theupper sheet and/or the lower surface of the lower sheet or the lowersurface of the continuous sheet, whichever comes into contact with theupper surface of the upper sheet. This light coat of adhesive willincrease the force required to separate the packages from the roll.This, in turn, will provide a resistive means, said resistive meansbeing necessary for the proper operation in some embodiments of thepresent invention. In alternative embodiments a physical resistive means(e.g., a friction device or other friction means) is included. Inalternative embodiments the packages are attached to each other using aflexible material and a bonding means. For example, the adjacentpackages can be attached to each other using individual adhesiveattaching strips (such as Scotch™ Brand Tape or other suitable method).In optional embodiments, the continuous roll is wrapped around a rigidcylindrical holding member such as a spool to provide for stability.

An exploded perspective view illustration of individual packages beingaligned and attached using attaching strips is shown in FIG. 23A. Theindividual packages 800 are aligned along their lateral axis andattached to the attaching strips 802 using an adhesive 803 or othersuitable bond. The attaching strips are preferably narrower than thewidth of the individual packages so as to form small locating means(e.g., a locating notch 804). The locating notches are defined by theside edges 801 of the attaching strip and the adjacent first end andsecond end of adjacent packages. These locating notches can be used tohold the packages as the adhesive strips are dispensed. An optionalweakened detaching line 806 is included to help separate the packages asthey are dispensed. The individual packages can overlap each other ifdesired. If overlapping, then it is preferred that only a portion of thefirst tabs 808 overlap the upper sheet 810 of the preceding package. Thelocating notches can be used on designs in which the individual packagesare advanced. Such designs include the continuous roll dispensers whichare described supra. In alternative embodiments, the attaching strapsare attached to each other and formed from a continuous sheet ofmaterial.

A top view illustration of the individual packages aligned and attachedto each other as shown in FIG. 23A is shown in FIG. 23B. The optionallocating notches 804 are formed between the packages by the combinationof the attaching strips. The attaching strips are narrower than thewidth of the individual packages so as to form the locating notches. Thelocating notches may range in size from a small slit to any desirablelength. The optional weakened detaching line is located on theattachment strip between the packages as desired. This design can alsobe used with other axial-pull bandage designs. Alternatively, thepackages are removably attached to the attaching strips.

A perspective view illustration of an alternative dispenser that uses anoptional external guide means suitable for use with the continuous rolldispensing pack of FIGS. 23A and 23B is shown in FIG. 24. The continuousroll dispensing pack 274 is placed within a dispenser 276 such thatindividual adhesive strips can be dispensed by pulling on the individualfirst tabs 282. The weakened line 278 of the upper sheet is seen. Afteran adhesive strip is dispensed, a new package 280 is pulled into placeby pulling on any of the upper sheet 284, the lower sheet, or theoptional continuous sheet backing, or by pulling the release liner 292(which now protrudes from the opened package, and is the preferredmethod). The empty packages are directed through an optional guidemeans, and if desired are cut by pulling the empty packages against acutting means. The cutting means 286 may comprise a serrated strip 288which can be placed as shown or can be optionally placed at the edge ofthe guide 290. Alternatively, the continuous sheet is scored orperforated so that it can be easily torn. The dispenser has an optionalbase 292 which provides sufficient stability. Additionally, the base canbe weighed down. Dispensers are well known in the art. In alternativeembodiments, the continuous roll dispensing pack can be placed within asupply spool/take-up spool dispenser (not shown). A friction means isincluded and restricts advancing movement of the roll. Suitable frictionmeans include a mechanical friction element acting on the roll or anadhesive/cohesive which would stop the advancement of the roll. Astopping means is also included to help locate the first tab in thecorrect position for dispensing. A suitable stopping means compriseshooks or tabs which catch small notches which or other types ofprotrusions which are placed between or on the individual packages.

An exploded side view illustration of a third embodiment of a dispensingpack is shown in FIG. 25A. The dispensing pack 874 comprises a pluralityof packages 860 (such as are described in the second major embodiment ofthe present invention) which are aligned and attached to each otheralong their second tabs 862 using an optional staple 868 or othersuitable method (e.g., adhesives, pressure, welding, etc.) which issuitable for the material being used. The dispensing pack can be placedwithin a dispenser adapted to support and contain the dispensing pack.The individual first tabs 864 are optionally folded back over themselvesand releasably attached to the lower sheet 872 of the preceding packageusing a light tack adhesive 870 such that when a first package is openedthe first tab of a succeeding package unfolds and separates from thelower sheet of previous package such that it is suitable for grasping bya user. In alternative embodiments, the first tab of the upper mostsheet is folded over itself.

A side view illustration of the third embodiment of the dispensing packwith the packages attached to each other is shown in FIG. 25B. Thedispensing pack 874 comprises a plurality of packages 860 which arealigned and attached to each other along their second tabs 862 using astaple 868 or other suitable method to attach them to each other. Thedispensing pack can be placed within a dispenser adapted to support andcontain the dispensing pack. The individual first tabs 864 areoptionally folded back over themselves and releasably attached to thelower sheet 868 of the preceding package using a light tack adhesive 870such that when a first package is opened the first tab of a succeedingpackage unfolds and separates from the lower sheet of previous packagesuch that it is suitable for grasping by a user. The first tab of theupper most sheet is optionally not folded over itself.

An exploded perspective view illustration of the fourth embodiment of adispensing pack is shown in FIG. 26A. The dispensing pack 880 comprisesa plurality of packages 882 (which are similar to the package which isshown in FIG. 18 above and described in the corresponding text) whichare aligned and attached to each other. The second tabs are folded backsuch that the transverse extensions 790 of the second tabs of a packagecan be attached to the of the transverse extension of the second tab ofan adjacent package, using a locating means which comprises an optionalstaple 884 or other suitable method (e.g., adhesives, pressure, welding,etc.) which is suitable for the material being used. This will allow thefirst and lower sheets to slide relative to the second tabs when thepackage is opened. The second tabs are optionally attached to a firstlocating means which is not shown. Likewise, an optional second locatingmeans can be used. The dispensing pack can be placed within an optionaldispenser adapted to support and contain the dispensing pack. Theindividual first tabs are optionally folded back over themselves andreleasably attached to the lower sheet of the preceding package using alight tack adhesive. The first tab of the upper most sheet is optionallynot folded over itself.

An exploded perspective view illustration of a fifth embodiment of adispensing pack is shown in FIG. 26B. The dispensing pack 881 comprisesa plurality of packages 882 (which are similar to the package which isshown in FIG. 18 above and described in the corresponding text) whichare aligned and attached to each other but uses a locating means whichcomprises an attachment strip 811 to attach packages to each other. Theattachment strip can be attached to the second tab 792 directly, or tothe optional transverse extension appendages 190 of the second tabs,using adhesives, staples, or other suitable method which is suitable forthe material being used. The second tabs are folded back upon themselvesand attached to the attachment strip such that the end regions 799 ofthe superposing adjacent attachment strips can be attached to each otherusing an adhesive or other suitable means. This will allow the uppersheet 796 and lower sheet 798, to slide relative to the second tabs whenthe package is opened. The attachment strips are optionally attached toa first locating means which is not shown. Likewise, an optional secondlocating means can be used. The dispensing pack can be placed within anoptional dispenser adapted to support and contain the dispensing pack.The individual first tabs are optionally folded back over themselves andreleasably attached to the lower sheet of the preceding package using alight tack adhesive. The first tab of the uppermost package isoptionally not folded over itself. If using an adhesive to attach theattachment strips to the second tabs, then is desirable to use optionaltransverse extension appendages as they will reduce the likelihood ofinadvertent adhesion between the first and/or lower sheet and theattachment strip. Those parts of the attachment strip which extend fromthe exterior periphery of the package and are suitable for attachment toa locating means or a dispensing package will be considered to betransverse extension appendages. In alternative embodiments, thetransverse extension appendages of the lower sheet are not provided, andthe attachment strips are directly attached to the second tab using anysuitable means (e.g., adhesives, etc.).

In yet other alternative embodiments, the second tabs are not foldedover themselves, and therefore extend directly in front of the lowersheet and are attached to the attachment tabs using any suitable methodas discussed elsewhere in this document.

In yet other alternative embodiments, the second tab includes transverseside extensions, but, the second tab is not folded over itself. Thetransverse side extensions of adjacent packages are attached to eachother so as to form an opening through which a package (or partsthereof) can pass through as the package is opened.

A perspective view illustration of a sixth embodiment of a dispensingpack is shown in FIG. 27A. The dispensing pack 306 is formed from aplurality of substantially superposed packages 300, (which are shown anddescribed in the first major embodiment of the present invention) whichare attached to or aligned with one another. The first tabs 296 are notattached to each other and are separated from the packages at weakenedline 298. The individual packages 300 are formed from one or more sheetsof material either attached to each other, held adjacent to each other,or folded in an accordion-like fashion so as to form a plurality ofindividual packages. In one embodiment, the dispensing pack isconstructed from a single sheet of material folded in an accordion-likefashion, so as to form both the upper sheet 302 and the lower sheet 304of the package. In another embodiment, the dispensing pack is formedfrom a single sheet of material that forms the lower sheet. The uppersheet is formed from individual sheets that are attached to thecontinuous sheet so as to form the package. In another embodiment, thedispensing pack is formed from two continuous sheets of material thatare folded in an accordion-like fashion so as to form the packages. Onesheet of material forms the upper sheet, while the other sheet forms thelower sheet. In another embodiment, the dispensing pack is formed fromindividual packages which are aligned with and stacked upon each other.In all embodiments of the dispensing pack 306 the individual sheets maybe folded either along their longitudinal or lateral axis. In otheralternative embodiments, in order to avoid substantial packagedeformation, the individual packages are held in close proximity by alocating means, which positions the packages in a desired location.Suitable locating means may comprise adhesive, staples, or other meanswhich position individual packages in a desired position (e.g., a pieceof paper bonded to several individual packages to form a dispensingpack). In alternative embodiments, either or both the upper sheet andthe lower sheet are extended. A plurality of packages are thensuperposed upon each other and held in position by a staple which isinserted proximate to or through the second tab of the package.

In yet other alternative embodiments, the second tab includes transverseside extensions, but, the second tab is not folded over itself. Thetransverse side extensions of adjacent packages are attached to eachother so as to form an opening through which a package (or partsthereof) can pass through as the package is opened

A perspective view illustration of a seventh embodiment of a dispensingpack is shown in FIG. 27B. The dispensing pack 900 is formed from aplurality of substantially superimposed packages 902, (which are shownand described in the second major embodiment of the present invention)which are attached to or aligned with, and stacked upon one another. Theindividual packages 904 are either attached to each other or heldadjacent. The second tab 906 of the lower sheet 910 is folded back overitself and has transverse extensions 908 which are either attached toeach other or held adjacent to each other by suitable locating means(e.g., adhesives, staples etc.). In alternative embodiments, in order toavoid substantial package deformation, the individual packages are heldin close proximity by a locating means, which positions the packages ina desired location. Suitable locating means may comprise adhesives,staples or other means which position individual packages in a desiredposition (e.g., a sheet of paper bonded to several individual packagesto form a dispensing pack). In yet other alternative embodiments, apiece of paper or other blocking type member is placed between thetransverse extensions of the second tabs. In yet other alternativeembodiments, the transverse extensions of the second tab are extended.

A front side view illustration of an eighth embodiment of a dispensingpack adapted to dispense adhesive strips from opposing sides is shown inFIG. 28A. The individual packages 310 that comprise the dispensing pack312 are located with their first tabs 314 opposing each other such thatthe adhesive strips or bandages which are adjacent to each other aredispensed from opposite ends of the dispensing pack. Additionally, ifdifferent-sized adhesive strips or bandages are used, then to aid theuser in discerning the size of the adhesive strip or bandage, theindividual packages that make up the dispensing pack are located withthe pull covers opposing each other such that different-sized adhesivestrips or bandages are located on and dispensed from opposite ends ofthe dispensing pack. The inner tab member is sized so that it is smallerthan the first tab, so that the upper sheet can be sealed to the lowersheet and form a bond around the outer periphery of the inner tabmember. This forms the first tab and will insure sterility if sodesired. The first tabs are separated from the packages at weakenedlines 308.

A front side view illustration of a ninth embodiment of a dispensingpack adapted to dispense adhesive strips from opposing sides is shown inFIG. 28B. The individual packages 920 that comprise the dispensing pack922 are located with their first tabs 924 opposing each other such thatthe adhesive strips or bandages which are adjacent to each other aredispensed from opposite ends of the dispensing pack. Additionally, ifdifferent-sized adhesive strips or bandages are used, then to aid theuser in discerning the size of the adhesive strip or bandage, theindividual packages that make up the dispensing pack are located withthe pull covers opposing each other such that different-sized adhesivestrips or bandages are located on and dispensed from opposite ends ofthe dispensing pack.

Although the dispensing pack may, if desired, dispense individualadhesive strips without the aid of a suitable container means, it ispreferable that the dispensing pack dispense adhesive strips whilecontained within a suitable container means, as illustrated anddescribed hereinbelow in FIGS. 29 through 37E. Each scheme will now bedescribed in more detail.

A perspective view illustration of a first embodiment of a containerassembly which uses a “flip-box” is shown in FIG. 29. The container 312is a folding-top-type box (also known as a “flip-box”) which comprises abody 314 and an attached lid 316. The container comprises one or moredispensing packs 318, wherein each dispensing pack comprises a pluralityof packages 320 placed such that the first tabs 322 and adhesive stripsare easily removed from the package. The lid is hingedly attached to thebody of the container such that the first tabs 324 are easily grasped bythe user when the lid 316 is opened and separated from the individualpackages at the weakened line 326. The dispensing pack is preferablyattached to the body of the container using a heat glue or othersuitable means (such as a locking-tab type mechanism). Such devices arecommonly known as cigarette packages, and more particularly as“hard-packs,” “crush-proof boxes,” or “hinged-lid packages.” See forexample U.S. Pat. Nos. 4,852,734 and 3,874,581, both of which areincorporated herein by reference in their entirety. The second tab isoptional.

A perspective view illustration of a second embodiment of a containerassembly incorporating a sliding box is shown in FIG. 30. Thesliding-box-type container 330 (hereinafter sliding box) comprises oneor more dispensing packs 332. The sliding box and its structure are wellknown in the art. See, for example, U.S. Pat. No. 5,080,227, to Focke,entitled “Pack made of thin cardboard, especially for cigarettes,”incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. The sliding-boxcontainer comprises an inner section 334 (also known as a “box part”)and an outer section 336 (also known as a “casing”), both of which areslideably located relative to each other. The inner section holds thedispensing pack such that the individual first tabs 341 are easy tograsp. The dispensing pack is preferably attached to the inner sectionusing a suitable means such as an adhesive (e.g. heat glue), or alocking-tab means. The inner section slides into a void located in theouter section. The inner section includes an opening that allows theuser to grasp the first tab 341. In the preferred embodiment, the firsttabs are made from a flexible material, and either or both of themextend slightly beyond the top 342 of the inner section so that thefirst tabs are easy to grasp by the user. The first tabs and/or the pullcovers preferably include an angle cut into the side that contacts theupper opposed end 344 of the outer section so that the first tabs and/orthe pull covers fold slightly and allow the outer section to enclose theinner section when the slide box type container is closed. In use, theinner section extends outward from the outer section enough so as tofully expose the individual first tabs and/or the pull covers of thedispensing pack.

A semi-cutaway perspective view illustration of a third embodiment of acontainer assembly is shown in FIG. 31. The container 350 is a flexiblecover that encloses the dispensing pack 352. Such packages are wellknown in the art and are often referred to as “soft-packs.” Thecontainer comprises a tear tab 354 which works with a tear cord 356located adjacent to the tear tab as shown. Alternatively, a weakenedline (e.g., scoring, thinning, etc.) can be used. To open the package,the tear tab is pulled back over itself so that the container cover 358is either opened or removed from the container, which exposes the firsttabs 360 and allows for the user to remove the first tab 360 andadhesive strip from the dispensing pack. The upper sheet 364 and theupper sheet's weakened line 362 are seen.

A perspective view illustration of a fourth embodiment of a containerassembly incorporating a flip cover-type box with the cover being in theclosed position is shown in FIG. 32A. The flipcover-type (ormatchbook-like) container 370 is wrapped around and encloses one or moredispensing packs 378. The container is constructed from a single sheetof material (e.g., thin cardboard) folded to form a back cover 374 and are-sealable front cover 372. The dispensing pack is secured to the backcover using a fastener such as a staple 376 or other suitable means suchas adhesive.

A side view illustration of the container assembly of FIG. 32A, is shownin FIG. 32B. The front cover 372 is retained in the closed position by aportion of the back cover 374 which wraps around and is attached to thedispensing pack.

A perspective view illustration of the container assembly of FIG. 32Awith the cover being in a semi-open position is shown in FIG. 32C. Thefront cover 372 is rotatably located relative to the back cover 374 suchthat the front cover is able to swing in excess of 180 degrees (andpreferably swings about 270 degrees or more) from the front cover'sclosed position, so that the front cover does not come into contact withthe adhesive strips as they are being removed from the dispensing pack.Additionally, the front cover is preferably adapted to allow easy accessto the first tabs 380. Alternatively, the bandage packages can bereversed so that the first tabs are located proximate to the base flap378.

A perspective view illustration of a fifth embodiment of a containerassembly incorporating a flip cover-type box including side members,with the cover and one side member being in the semi-open position isshown in FIG. 33A. The flip cover-type container 390 is substantiallysimilar to the flipcover-type container illustrated in FIGS. 32A through32C described supra, with a difference being the addition of a retentionmeans such as side members 394 which are articulated to the rear cover396. The side members can be attached to each other using an adhesivetape, a locking tab, or other suitable means. This type of container isknown in the art.

A perspective view illustration of the container assembly of FIG. 33Awith side members secured to each other is shown in FIG. 33B. The sidemembers 394 are folded around the dispensing packs 398 and are securedto each other using a suitable attachment means (e.g., a tab, adhesive,adhesive tape, staple, pressure bond, etc.) so that they conceal thedispensing pack contained within the container assembly 390. Inalternative embodiments, side members are attached to the rear cover 396using a weakened line (e.g., scoring or perforating) so that the sidemember can be removed after the container assembly is initially opened.

A perspective view illustration of the container assembly of FIG. 33Awith the cover in the closed position is shown in FIG. 33C. The sidemembers 394 conceal and secure the dispensing packs 398 held within thecontainer assembly 390, thus making the container assembly suitable forstore displays and merchandising fixtures without requiring additionalpackaging materials. The dispenser assembly 390 may optionally beoriented in the vertical position for hanging on display rails, storagerails, or posts.

A perspective view illustration of a sixth embodiment of a containerassembly incorporating a flexible outer wrapper having a body portionand a removable top portion is shown in FIG. 34A. The container assembly400 comprises a flexible body portion 412 and a removable top portion404. The flexible body portion is formed from a flexible sheet ofmaterial (e.g., treated paper) wrapped around and securely attached to aplurality of packages to form a dispensing pack. The flexible bodyportion comprises an open end 402 and a closed end 420. The closed endof the body portion is flattened and attached to itself (using adhesive,etc.) to seal one end of the body portion and to form a first holdingtab 414 which is suitable for grasping. The first tabs 406 of thedispensing pack extend outward from the open end of the body portion sothat they are easy to grasp. The dispensing pack is secured to the bodyportion using any suitable bonding method (e.g., adhesive, staples,pressure, etc.).

The top portion comprises a flexible cylindrical member having an openend 416 and a closed end 410. The top portion is constructed from thesame material as the body portion. The closed end of the top portion isflattened and attached to itself (using adhesive, etc.) so as to sealone end of the top portion and to form a second holding tab 408 which issuitable for grasping. The open end of the top portion has an innercircumference which is slightly larger than the exterior circumferenceof the body portion so that the cover portion can be slidably attachedto the body portion. In alternative embodiments the top portion may havea slight conical form to better secure the top portion to the bodyportion.

In alternative embodiments, the closed end of the top portion comprisesa weakened line (e.g., scoring, perforating or adhesive) so that theclosed end can be opened. In use, the pull tabs are accessed by slidablyrepositioning the top portion along the longitudinal axis of the bodyportion so that the pull tabs of the dispensing pack extend outward fromthe now open closed end of the top portion.

A perspective view illustration of the container assembly of FIG. 34Awith the top portion removed is shown in FIG. 34B. Removing the topportion exposes, and allows easy access to, the first tabs 406 of thedispensing pack contained within the body portion.

A perspective view illustration of a seventh embodiment of a containerassembly incorporating a semi-rigid body portion and a re-sealable coverin the closed and open positions respectively, is shown in FIGS. 35A and35B. The container 430 comprises a body 432 with a re-sealable cover434. The container comprises one or more dispensing packs 440, whereineach dispensing pack contains a plurality of packages, situated suchthat the first tabs 438 and adhesive strips are easily removed from thepackage. The packages can be made in accordance with the first or secondmajor embodiment of the present invention. The cover is articulated withthe body of the container such that the first tabs are easily grasped bythe user when the cover is opened. The dispensing pack is attached tothe body using any suitable method (e.g., staples 436, adhesive,pressure bonding, etc.). A slot 442 is provided to releasably secure thecover in the closed position. Alternatively, a re-sealable adhesive orother suitable method can be used. An optional U-shaped slit (not shown)is provided between the body and the cover to prevent the cover fromfolding back upon itself during removal of the adhesive strips from thedispensing pack.

A perspective view illustration of an eighth embodiment of a containerassembly incorporating a flip-cover-type box with the cover being in thesemi open position is shown in FIG. 36A.

The flipcover-type (or matchbook-like container) container 940 iswrapped around and encloses one or more dispensing packs 92. Thepreferred dispensing pack is of the type shown in FIGS. 19A-19B, 20A-20Band 25A-25B and described in the corresponding text. As illustrated, thedispensing pack shown is similar to the dispensing pack shown in FIGS.25A-25B. Alternatively, other types of dispensing packs can be used aswill be discussed infra. The container is constructed from a singlesheet of material (e.g., thin cardboard) folded to form a back cover944, a top portion 948, a minor portion 950, a closure portion 952, anda re-sealable front cover (or lid) 946. The dispensing pack is securedto both the back cover and the closure portion using a fastener such asa staple 954 or other suitable means such as an adhesive. An optionallocating means such as side members 958 which are articulated to therear cover are used to locate the individual packages in a desiredposition for dispensing. Moreover, the side members conceal and securethe dispensing packs held within the container assembly thus making thecontainer assembly suitable for store-displays and merchandisingfixtures without requiring additional packaging materials.

The optional side members 958 are folded around the dispensing packs andare secured to each other using a suitable attachment means such as anotch and tab-type design 960 shown or any other suitable means (e.g., atab, adhesive, adhesive tape, staple, pressure bond, etc.) so that theylocate the dispensing pack contained within the container assembly in adesired position for dispensing. The side member attachment means isoptionally releasable and reattachable so that the side members can beopened in case the first tabs jam in use. In alternative embodiments,side members are attached to the rear cover using a weakened line (e.g.,scoring or perforating) so that the side member can be removed after thecontainer assembly is initially opened. In use the cover can be in thesemi open position, or optionally in an almost closed position dependingon whether side members are incorporated into the design. The first tabs962 are seen extending from the dispensing packs. In use, the first tabis pulled, optionally, in the direction indicated by arrows JJJ. Thedispenser assembly may optionally be oriented in the vertical positionfor hanging on display rails, storage rails or posts. In alternativeembodiments the dispenser can have small cutouts which help it standupright on all or a portion of the minor portion.

In alternative embodiments, side members are attached to the rear cover944 using a weakened line (e.g., scoring or perforating) so that theside member can be removed after the container assembly is initiallyopened.

In alternative embodiments only one dispensing pack is used. While, inyet other alternative embodiments, two or more dispensing packs arealigned side by side within the container assembly as shown.

A perspective view illustration of the container assembly of FIG. 36Awith the front cover in the closed position is shown in FIG. 36B. Thefront cover is held in the closed position by tucking it under theclosure portion. The first tabs are optionally folded back overthemselves before the front cover is closed as will be discussed infra.

A cross sectional side view illustration of the container assembly ofFIG. 36B taken along line 36C-36C of FIG. 36B is shown in FIG. 36C. Aplurality of packages is seen within the container. The first tabs arenot shown. The front cover is in the closed position.

A perspective view illustration of the container assembly of FIG. 36Awith the front cover and one side member being in a semi-open positionis shown in FIG. 36D. The front cover 946 and top portion 948 arerotatably located relative to each other and to the back cover 944.Additionally, the front cover is preferably adapted to allow easy accessto the first tabs 962. Alternatively, the bandage packages can bereversed so that the first tabs are located proximate to the topportion. The side members are closed using a notched tab design.

A perspective view illustration of the container assembly of FIG. 36Awith side members secured to each other and the first tabs folded backover themselves, is shown in FIG. 36E. The first tabs are optionallyfolded back over themselves prior to closing the package.

A detailed side view illustration of the container assembly of FIG. 36Awith the front cover being partially opened and a first tab extendingfrom a package is shown in FIG. 37A. The container assembly 500 holds adispensing pack. The first tab 502 of the upper most package 501 extendsfrom an opening created by the front cover 504, the side members 506(which are partially removed so as to shown the dispensing packcontained with the container), and the closure portion 522.Alternatively, when not using the optional side members, the first tabextends from an opening created by the front cover and the closureportion. Alternatively, the first tab extends from an opening created byany other suitable locating means. If using optional side members thefront cover can be placed in the fully opened position as the adhesivestrips are dispensed from the package.

The second tabs 508 are attached to each other and to the flip covercontainer using a fastener such as a staple 510 of other suitable means(e.g., adhesives).

In use, the user grasps the first tab of the uppermost package and pullsit away from the dispenser linearly in the direction indicated by arrowUUU.

A detailed side view illustration of the container assembly of FIG. 37Aas the package is opened is shown in FIG. 37B. Note that forillustration, the following drawings are line drawings, and that theupper sheet is attached to the lower sheet as described elsewhere inthis document. The first tab is pulled which causes the package toadvance and pass through locating means 512 (which, as depicted,comprises the closure portion and the side member) and also cause atleast the lower sheet to fold over itself. The first tab of thesuccessive package 503, which is optionally releasably attached to thelower surface of the lower sheet 514 of the preceding package, begins tofold over itself.

A detailed side view illustration of the container assembly of FIG. 37Aas the package is opened is shown in FIG. 37C. The first tab 518 of thesuccessive package is seen unfolding over itself. If the first tab isattached to the adjacent lower sheet of the proceeding package using alow tack adhesive or a cohesive, then the bond between the first tab andthe adjacent lower sheet should break as the bandage package is pulled.This effect is desirable in some applications. The leading end of theadhesive strip 519 is partially exposed.

A detailed side view illustration of the container assembly of FIG. 37Aas the package is opened is shown in FIG. 37D. The pull cover 513 isseen separating from both the upper sheet and the lower sheet. Theadhesive strip 517 is seen peeling away from the release liner 515 andlower sheet. The first tab 518 of the succeeding package has fullyfolded over itself and is in position for dispensing the next bandage.The bond between the first tab and the lower surface of the lower sheetshould be such that the first tab preferably separates from the lowersheet as the first tab is unfolded. Alternatively, the first tab can beseparated from the lower sheet when the lower sheet is removed from thedispensing pack, using an adhesive with a low shear force-type bond.

A detailed side view illustration of the container assembly of FIG. 37Aas the package is opened is shown in FIG. 37E. The pull cover 513 andthe releasably attached adhesive strip 517 have separated from thepackage. The lower sheet is optionally pulled by the user and separatedfrom the second tab 508 at weakened line 503, thus exposing the firsttab of the succeeding package. Alternatively, the lower sheet is pulledagainst the edge 509 of the closure portion which causes the lower sheetto tear and separate from the dispensing pack. In yet other embodiments,the closure portion includes an edge or other surface to promoteseparation of the lower sheet.

Other alternative embodiments of the container means are envisioned foruse with either the sheet or the roll form dispensing packs as shown anddescribed above. For example, the roll form dispenser can be used incombination with a suitable dispenser such as shown in FIG. 3 of U.S.Pat. No. 5,891,078, to Turngren, entitled “Sterile adhesive bandage andassociated methods,” incorporated herein by reference in its entirety,or with other suitable roll dispensers as are commonly known in the art.

It should be appreciated that the present invention, either alone, in adispensing pack, or with a dispensing pack and an optional container, iswell suited for use by medical emergency personnel and others such assoldiers and pilots who have limited time to open a conventional packageand remove a release liner, especially under urgent conditions orconditions which allow use of only a single hand. In other embodiments,the package may be constructed from waterproof materials so that it doesnot have to be enclosed in a container to maintain sterility.

The particular materials which may be employed in the practice of thisinvention are well known in the art. Preferably, the upper and lowersheets are constructed from paper of the same type as is now commonlyused to wrap bandages or materials of similar nature. The release lineris preferably constructed from paper which is coated (or treated) on atleast one side with a release material, the reverse side being suitablefor adhering to the lower sheet. In many embodiments, the bandage itselfis known and may be constructed from cloth, plastic, polyester,polyurethane, foam, film, fibrous webs, woven webs, or any othersuitable material or any combination thereof.

Moreover, the flexible adhesive strip (or bandage) of the presentinvention can comprise a hydrocolloidal wound dressing.

Furthermore, the flexible strip may be made from a combination ofmaterials to obtain the desired properties. For example, the flexiblestrip, the absorbent pad or the adhesive coating on the surface of theflexible strip may be treated so as to possess antimicrobial properties.Such inventions are disclosed in the following: U.S. Pat. No. 4,728,323,to Matson, entitled “Antimicrobial wound dressings,” U.S. Pat. No.4,323,557, to Rosso, et al., entitled “pressure-sensitive adhesivecontaining iodine,” and U.S. Pat. No. 4,310,509, to Berglund, et al.,entitled “Pressure-sensitive adhesive having a broad spectrumantimicrobial therein,” all of which are incorporated herein byreference in their entirety. In addition, U.S. Pat. No. 5,976,117, toDunshee, entitled “Wound dressing,” incorporated herein by reference inits entirety, discloses a bandage which has at least two regions, onewhich is proximate to the wound and encourages cell regeneration andprovides a space for wound exudates, and a second region whichsubstantially surrounds the first region comprising an antimicrobialagent in an amount that is at least sufficient to inhibit or essentiallyprevent migration of microorganisms to the first region from theexternal environment along the interface between the sheet material andthe skin to which the sheet material has been adhered. Additionally, theabsorbent pad (also known as a wound pad) or the flexible strip may betreated with a medicament or an antimicrobial film. Furthermore, theflexible strip, adhesive strip and/or absorbent pad may be used fortransdermal drug delivery or chemical indicators (used for monitoring).It will also be appreciated that the adhesive that is used in adhesivestrips and bandages is preferably a dermatologically acceptablepressure-sensitive adhesive. Moreover, the bandages may comprise “smartbandages” which are known in the art.

Furthermore, the flexible strip, adhesive strip, and/or bandage cancomprise a film and/or coating which is sensitive to U.V. light and thatcan change shades or colors when the strip has been exposed to U.V.light which exceeds a given value. The strip is placed on a givenlocation on the users' body (e.g., the hand, neck etc.) or placed on theusers' clothing (e.g., a shirt sleeve or glove).

In other alternative embodiments, the dispensing pack, the package, theflexible strip, the adhesive strip, and/or the bandage comprises aflexible power source such as the commonly known POWER PAPER™ (by PowerPaper Ltd., Petah Tikva, Israel) is printed upon a desired surface(e.g., a dispensing pack, the package or an adhesive strip or a bandage.An optional alerting means (e.g., a light source, and/or a speaker) isbe printed upon, or otherwise attached to, the dispensing pack, thepackage and/or the flexible strip, adhesive strip and/or bandage. Anoptional circuit means is coupled to the power source and the lightsource such that the light source can be activated or deactivated atcertain desired times. The circuit means employs an optional activationmeans such as a passive and/or active switch, a logic means, and/or atimer. A dispensing pack, dispensing package and/or adhesive strip withthe alerting means (e.g., a light source or sound source) is useful,when, it is desired that a medical patch be applied at certain desiredintervals.

For example, in one embodiment, a dispensing pack with a plurality ofpackages each incorporating a medical patch is used. A POWER PAPER™power source is printed upon the dispensing pack and coupled to acircuit means. The circuit means is further coupled to a LED which is incommunication with the dispensing pack and is placed in a location suchthat it is visible to the user. The circuit means employs an optionaltimer which is optionally activated when the dispensing pack is used forthe first time. The timer then causes the circuit means to activate theLED at a desired time period which will alert the user to change medicalpatches.

Other examples of adhesive strips include a means for securing cathetertubes, etc., or may be made from laminated materials that possess thedesired properties.

Throughout this invention, it will be appreciated that the combinationformed by the release liner and the releasably attached flexible strip,adhesive strip, or bandage can be folded transversely across its widthto minimize the space required by the package as well as the amount ofpackaging materials used to manufacture the package. If an adhesivestrip and attached release liner are folded over then it is preferredthat the combination not be too rigid, in order that the bandage can beremoved from the package without an undue amount of force. If using arigidity-enhancing carrier or other laminates upon the adhesive strip,then care should be taken so that the laminates do not delaminate fromeach other. If using an adhesive strip, then the adhesive strip ispreferably folded at or near its midpoint. Alternatively, if using abandage, then the bandage is preferably folded at a location that issomewhere between the wound pad and the end that is furthest from theleading edge of the bandage (before folding).

The user is further directed to the aforementioned U.S. Pat. Nos.5,160,315 and 4,472,480, both of which are incorporated herein byreference in their entirety, which describe the selection of releaseliners and carrier sheets as well as the methods of bonding them to anadhesive strip. Furthermore, the user is directed to the 3M ProductSelection Guide, Label Stocks, Laminating Adhesives and Printable Tapes,Mar. 1, 1996. The user is further directed to the Pressure SensitiveTape Council, Northbrook, Ill., available at pstc.org, and to AIMCAL,Fort Mill, S.C., available at aimcal.org.

Certain additional advantages and features of this invention may beapparent to those skilled in the art upon studying the disclosure, ormay be experienced by persons employing the novel structure of thepresent package and dispenser, chief of which is that it minimizes therisk of touching and contaminating the absorbent pad. Other advantagesare quicker dispensing, easier application, and reduction of the numberof individual components requiring disposal.

While the invention has been described with a limited number ofembodiments, it will be appreciated that changes may be made withoutdeparting from the scope of the original claimed invention, and it isintended that all matter contained in the foregoing specification anddrawings be taken as illustrative and not in an exclusive sense.

1. An adhesive strip package apparatus, comprising: a plurality ofpackages at least one of which comprises: a release liner; an adhesivestrip attached to the release liner; upper and lower sheets attached toeach other so as to form at least part of an enclosure for holding atleast part of the adhesive strip; a first tab configured to be suitablefor grasping and attached to the upper sheet, wherein an act of pullingthe first tab causes the separation of the upper sheet from the lowersheet, the separation of the release liner from the adhesive strip, andthe removal of the adhesive strip from the package; and an adhesiveportion attached to the first tab adapted to attach a first tab of asucceeding package of the plurality of packages to the lower sheet of apreceding package of the plurality of packages thereby forming adispensing pack of packages.
 2. The apparatus according to claim 1,wherein the act of pulling the first tab of the preceding package of theplurality of packages further advances the first tab of a succeedingpackage of the plurality of packages into a position suitable forgrasping by the user.
 3. The apparatus according to claim 1, whereinsaid dispensing pack comprises packages aligned and held in a particulararrangement.
 4. The apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising acontainer adapted to position the plurality of packages in anarrangement.
 5. The apparatus according to claim 4, wherein thecontainer comprises an opening through which at least one of the upperand lower sheets pass when the adhesive strip is removed from thepackage.
 6. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the adhesivestrip further comprises at least one of a medical bandage and a medicalpatch.
 7. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the adhesive stripfurther comprises at least one of a wound pad and an antimicrobialcoating.
 8. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the adhesivestrip further comprises a hydrocolloidal wound dressing.
 9. Theapparatus according to claim 1, wherein the upper sheet furthercomprises at least one weakened area which defines at least part of apull cover.
 10. An adhesive strip package apparatus, comprising: aplurality of packages at least one of which comprises: a first sheethaving a first tab suitable for grasping; a second sheet having afastening member, the second sheet being attached to the first sheet soas to form at least part of a cavity; a release liner situated in thecavity and attached to the second sheet; an adhesive strip attached toeach of the release liner and the first sheet; and a first attachmentportion attached to an exterior portion of the second sheet, wherein theplurality of packages are arranged to form a dispensing pack in which afirst tab of at least one succeeding package of the plurality ofpackages is attached to a first attachment portion of a second sheet ofat least one preceding package of the plurality of packages.
 11. Theapparatus according to claim 10, wherein an act of pulling the first tabof a corresponding package of the plurality of packages causes theseparation of the first sheet from the second sheet, the separation ofthe release liner from the adhesive strip, and the removal of theadhesive strip from the corresponding package.
 12. The apparatusaccording to claim 10, wherein the act of pulling the first tab of thepreceding package of the plurality of packages further advances thefirst tab of the succeeding package of the plurality of packages into aposition suitable for grasping by the user.
 13. The apparatus accordingto claim 10, wherein a plurality of packages are aligned and held in anarrangement, thereby forming a dispensing pack.
 14. The apparatusaccording to claim 10, further comprising a container adapted toposition the plurality of packages in an arrangement.
 15. The apparatusaccording to claim 14, wherein the container comprises an openingthrough which at least one of the upper and lower sheets pass when theadhesive strip is removed from the package.
 16. The apparatus accordingto claim 10, wherein the adhesive strip further comprises at least oneof a medical bandage and a medical patch.
 17. The apparatus according toclaim 10, wherein the adhesive strip further comprises at least one of awound pad and an antimicrobial coating.
 18. The apparatus according toclaim 10, wherein the adhesive strip further comprises a hydrocolloidalwound dressing.
 19. The apparatus according to claim 10, wherein theupper sheet further comprises at least one weakened area which definesat least part of a pull cover.
 20. The apparatus according to claim 1,wherein the adhesive portion is situated between the first tab of thesucceeding package of the plurality of packages and the lower sheet of apreceding package of the plurality of packages.
 21. The apparatus ofaccording to claim 1, further comprising a connection portion structuredto hold each of the lower sheets of the plurality of packages in anarrangement whereby an act of pulling the first tab of the precedingpackage of the plurality of packages draws the first tab of thesucceeding package into a position suitable for grasping by the user.22. The apparatus according to claim 21, further comprising an openingdefined by at least two walls which are situated relative to thearrangement such that the act of pulling the first tab of the precedingpackage of the plurality of packages draws the first tab of thesucceeding package through the opening and into position suitable forgrasping by the user.